STARKE IN AS BRUMMIES REBUILD

BIRMINGHAM have brought Paul Starke back to the club and also re-introduced Stefan Nielsen after injury.

Starke rode for the Brummies during their ill-fated 2014 campaign and comes into the team after leaving Plymouth earlier this year, replacing Joe Thompson who is out with a broken collarbone, whilst Nielsen returns after the expiry of Dan Thompson’s 28-day deal as cover.

And the changes also allow Alfie Bowtell, one of the success stories of this season at Perry Barr, to move to reserve.

Team manager Stewart Dickson said: “With Paul and Stefan now in the team, there’s two riders with plenty of experience and they should be able to provide some solid back-up for our top three.

“For me though, the fact these moves enable Alfie to move down to reserve is a massive bonus in my opinion.

“He is currently riding with so much confidence and belief, the fact I can use him up to seven times will, hopefully, prove to be a luxury for these next few meetings at least.”