It must be a hard time at the moment for Birmingham City stopper David Stockdale. It’s clear that he doesn’t have a future at the club.
The 33-year-old Leeds-born keeper, who arrived at the Blues on a free transfer from Premier League new boys Brighton and Hove Albion in 2017, has been told he’s no longer wanted at the club.
Instead of jockeying for a place in the first-team squad, Stockdale is having to make do with training with the Under-18s. No doubt he will cut a lonely and dejected figure in doing so.
This is a keeper who Leeds United were said to have been interested in over the summer window. A move didn’t come off for him, and with Garry Monk deciding that he was persona non grata, Stockdale was dropped down the age groups.
His only action this season has come via five Sky Bet League One appearances for Southend (three games/five conceded) and Wycombe Wanderers (two games/three conceded). It is the recall from Wycombe by Birmingham that led to this tweet from the recalled Blues stopper.
I’d like to thank everyone at @wwfcofficial for my short time there. Wish I could have helped for longer but unfortunately I’ve been recalled by Birmingham city. I wish you all the best in the future. Thank you💙
— David Stockdale (@stockogk1313) November 29, 2018
However, Stockdale sought to clarify a part of his original ‘recall’ tweet later and posted the following:
Just want to clear it up. The reason I said “unfortunately “ is because I was enjoying my football and both me and Wycombe thought it was going to be extended until their GK was back fit. Birmingham have decided not to extend the loan. I was frustrated as I’m back with u18s.
— David Stockdale (@stockogk1313) November 29, 2018
The final part of this clarification tells the whole story really. Stockdale’s frustration is very clear with his situation, the model professional being relegated to training with the kids at St Andrews.
It is a situation that has led to many comments from well-wishers, the massive majority pulling for the Birmingham stopper. Here’s what some have said:
Brother I know Its hard bit be patience. As the pro you are and the quality you have. Soon You’ll be back playing again. I know How it is. The tables will turn soon
— kemy agustien (@KemyAgustien) November 29, 2018
Not a nice situation for such a top pro
— Harvey Rad (@Harvey_123) November 29, 2018
Treated unfairly feel like there’s got to be a reason tho. KRO dave
— BCFC News (@bcfcnews__) November 29, 2018
Sad cos I still wish you had stayed at BHAFC …. good luck David ⚽️
— Nic Outterside (@seagullnic) November 29, 2018
I would like to see you back between sticks at Birmingham mate. KRO Dave your time will come
— carl thompson (@tommo398) November 29, 2018
It’s just crazy that your with the u18s. We loved you at Wycombe these past two games and we wanted you to stay . I would of loved you to stay even further than just a loan spell. #bcfc sort it out let stocks comeback #classkeeper
— Captain Sweatpants (@sjrwwfc) November 29, 2018
Such a great keeper disappointed as Blues fan that your not playing first team football with any team and your with our U-18s. I hope you get the move you want in the future and get your career back on track as your great keeper.
— Wildbcfcliam (@wildbcfcliam) November 29, 2018
I just don’t get it . You should be in goal every week I’m rooting for you ! Hope you get past this point and get back down St. Andrews . Your a positive guy and you’ve handled all the bullshit very professionally !
— Christopher (@cpezza1989) November 29, 2018
You deserve better fella. Keep the chin up and be the true professional you have always been. Don’t let the bastards grind you down.
— Malcolm Upton (@Alky007) November 29, 2018