Darren Randolph: 26 year old Randolph is an Irish international goalkeeper who has joined Blues on a free (a recurring theme with the signings so far this summer; for obvious reasons) from Motherwell. Motherwell fans were upset to see him leave, but wished him well, which is often a very good sign. Many said he was a terrific 'keeper and that he may aspire to play at a higher level, as he has the quality. It's clear that Randolph is a hugely talented goalkeeper and could be a huge coup for Blues, as he is only 26. This means if he has a good season next season, we can (will) sell him to Hull or Norwich for a couple of million.
Neal Eardley: A young full back with lots of experience, including a season in the premier league, Eardley joins Lee Clark's team off the back of a fairly average season, having only played 24 games in the league. With 16 international caps to his name, Welsh international Eardley is a talented full back who likes to go forward and can play on the right wing if needed. If Blues decide to play 3-5-2 this season, then the right wing-back spot seems suited to Eardley.
Kyle Bartley: At a very young age was touted as a possible star for the future, but a lack of game time in English football as well as being played out of position for Rangers have led to a stunt in his development. Rangers fans do not speak very highly of Kyle - 'slow, no positional sense and a thug' were some of the the terms used to describe him, however he was played out of position and infrequently there, so though worrying, these may not ring entirely true. It's clear that Bartley has ability, but whether he fulfills it is another matter. A year loan to Blues where he plays regularly should help massively.
Dan Burn: Burn has managed to move to a team where he isn't the biggest player - no mean feat. Standing at a towering 6'7, Burn is one of the biggest players in English football; coincidentally, Zigic is the only player in the Championship who is taller. This should make us a huge threat at set-pieces, providing we can beat the first man for once. Burn has drawn comparisons to Brede Hangeland, due to his calm, composed ability on the ball combined with his height and defensive ability. Another loanee, which outlines Blues' financial trouble and inability to pay for players, but hopefully he can do a good job for Blues this season.
Scott Allan: Following the success of Ravel Morrison's loan last year (eventually), Clark has decided to bring in a player who he views as a similar player, this time on loan (another one) from West Brom. Allan is a creative midfielder who can go past a man and create chances. Unfortunately for him, he has had very little consistent game time in the last few years, but this means that he is hungry for football at Blues. He has already expressed his desire to stay permanently, but our financial state may not make that a viable option. Allan looks like an exciting player and can hopefully have a successful season at Blues.
Shane Ferguson: The young full back/winger made a huge impression last season whilst on loan at Blues. Hopefully he can have the same effect again this year. Quick, skillful with a lovely left foot, the Northern Ireland international has impressed Clark and has signed on loan again, despite interest from elsewhere.
Andrew Shinnie: Shinnie is an exciting player for me, due to his terrific goalscoring record having played as an attacking midfielder. Effective playing up front or in midfield, 'Shinniesta' has impressed in pre-season and looks to have a promising future in football. He is only 24, has been capped for Scotland and was amongst the nominations for SPL Player of the Year.
Lee Novak: Novak brings hard work and tenacity to Blues' front line, as well as good awareness to bring others into play. He isn't the best goalscorer, as evidenced by his poor 4 in 34 goal return last season, however Clark has managed him before and believes he can get the best out of him. Novak was the foil to Jordan Rhodes during his record-breaking season, which shows that he does have ability to create and help the team.
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