Connal Trueman returning to Birmingham after Oxford United loan

Trueman joined on an emergency loan last week, however Simon Eastwood is due to return to training tomorrow after isolating with coronavirus, while Jack Stevens is in light training after a bout of glandular fever.

Trueman’s whirlwind week with the U’s started ahead of the 3-1 win at home to Fleetwood Town, when his signing was announced just an hour before kick-off.

He then kept a clean sheet against Sky Bet League One leaders Rotherham United on Saturday.

He said: “It was only a week but it was very intense and looking at it from the inside, I could see a team and a club who are really together and going places.

“I signed all the paperwork on the Tuesday then drove down and met everyone an hour before the Fleetwood game.

“I just about knew everyone’s name by kick-off but I could sense the determination and just didn’t want to let anyone down.

“Everyone was buzzing after the win and the atmosphere at the training ground the next few days was really good but we knew we were playing a really strong side on Saturday and to keep a clean sheet and pick up a point was a great effort.

“People kept saying how well we defended but I thought we looked the more likely team to win it in the second half.”

Trueman’s only game for Birmingham this season came in the Carabao Cup first round in August, keeping a clean sheet during a 1-0 win in a tie at home against Colchester United.

The 25-year-old is behind Matija Sarkic and Neil Etheridge in the pecking order at St Andrew’s.

He joined the Blues as a youngster and has played 44 senior games in his career, 13 of them in the Championship.

Reflecting on his brief stint with the U’s, Trueman said: “I loved it and want to thank everyone for making me feel so welcome.

“From the minute I walked through the door, I felt part of things and the gaffer, all the staff, the players and the fans were amazing.

“I want to thank them and wish them well for the rest of the season.”