Birmingham City boss Steve Bruce admits Borja Oubina's knee injury has left a big hole in his midfield plans this season.

"The injury will keep him out for the rest of the season. We don't want many of them that's for sure," said the manager. "I think I am jinxed in the midfield positions. Look at the injuries we had in the past with people like David Dunn and Muzzy Izzet.

"I then chased two or three midfielders in the summer (Mathieu Flamini and Hossam Ghaly) without success.

"I didn't get one then but we got one right at the death of the transfer window in Oubina.

"I was delighted to get him with his experience and know-how. We will just have to battle on without him but it's a shame."