Birmingham City midfielder makes non-league switch ahead of contract expiry

Birmingham City midfielder Rico Patterson has finalized a loan transfer to Rushall Olympic, a team in the National League North, according to an announcement on Birmingham City’s official website.

The club’s youth academy is renowned in the EFL, providing numerous young talents with opportunities to break into the first team. Following suit, Patterson, a midfielder, has opted to gain experience on loan after featuring prominently for Birmingham City’s youth teams.

The 20-year-old has joined Rushall Olympic on a temporary basis until the conclusion of the sixth-tier season on April 20th, as confirmed by Birmingham City on Tuesday. Patterson will reunite with former academy colleagues Callum Sullivan and Rico Browne at Dales Lane, following his 26 appearances for the U21s this season.

Looking to catch the eye

Patterson will be looking to impress with his opportunity to play frequently at the senior level. The National League North is an appropriate level for him to be tested at, and his proximity to Walsall-based Rushall Olympic allows Birmingham City academy staff to monitor his progress.

The kid is nearing the conclusion of his Blues contract, so the move comes at an ideal moment. It is an opportunity for him to demonstrate to the Championship club that he possesses the qualities to impress on the senior level.

Furthermore, if he leaves St. Andrew’s this summer, he may have the opportunity to capture the attention of possible suitors.

Patterson can play in a variety of midfield positions, but he typically plays centrally as a no.8. He can play on the wing or in the offensive midfield.