Birmingham City unearth "another Demarai Gray" in Viv Solomon-Otabor

Birmingham City manager Gary Rowett has likened Viv Solomon-Otabor to sought-after teammate Demarai Gray.

Solomon-Otabor, 19, scored his first Birmingham goal in the 5-2 win at Fulham before the international break, but is yet to make his first start for the club.

Rowett believes that the former Crystal Palace youngster has the attributes to follow in the footsteps of Gray, also 19, who has been the subject of Premier League interest since breaking into the first team last season.

"If he can piece it all together, he's going to be another Demarai Gray," Rowett told BBC WM.

"He's probably stronger than Demarai. He's quicker than Demarai. He doesn't take on players like Demarai, but he's got two really good feet.

"He can smash a ball with both his left and his right, and he's a really humble lad, who works incredibly hard."

Sixth-placed Birmingham are back in action on Saturday when they host lowly Charlton Athletic.