Academy graduate Brandon Khela becomes first British-Indian and first Sikh-Punjabi to sign a professional contract at Birmingham City; Blues 4 All chair Micky Singh: “This is huge. It’s a landmark moment for all Birmingham City fans, particularly those from a South Asian background.”
The technically-gifted midfielder played for Birmingham’s U18s last season, before firmly establishing himself at U23 level in Premier League 2, and turns professional after completing his first season as a scholar.
His progress and performances were rewarded by first-team manager Lee Bowyer, who handed Khela a place on the bench in a 2-2 draw away at Stoke last season, just one month after his 17th birthday.
Former Arden Academy pupil Khela also received his first England youth call-up, with the Indian-heritage youngster playing in both of England’s recent U17 friendly matches against Norway and USA, respectively.
