"It's a landmark moment for all Birmingham City fans"
This is a landmark day for 17-year-old Brandon Khela who becomes the first British South Asian footballer to ever sign professional terms for Birmingham City.
Posting on social media, the teenager said he was happy to sign his first professional contract.
The news has seen an outcry of support from British Asians around the country.
The signing has also received immense praise from huge media outlets as well as applause from other athletes.
Micky Singh, the Chair of Official Birmghinam City Supporters’ Group told Sky Sports News:
“This is huge. It’s a landmark moment for all Birmingham City fans, particularly those from a South Asian heritage background.
“I’ve supported Blues for over 60 years and have waited a very long time to see a South Asian kid wear the Royal Blue shirt.”
“It will be a momentous occasion across the entire city of Birmingham – and beyond – the day Brandon makes his debut for the first team.
“And from a representation perspective, watching him perform on the pitch will give hope to many aspiring youngsters that want to follow the path into professional football.”
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The highly talented midfielder started with Coventry City aged just three but joined Birmingham City after they scouted him.
Since then, he has played in every age-group side for the Midlands club.
The gifted athlete played for the U18s side in the 2021-22 season and eventually made a name for himself at the U23 level in Premier League 2.
First-team manager Lee Bowyer rewarded Brandon’s efforts by placing him on the bench against Stoke in a 2-2 draw last season. One month after his 17th birthday.
He joins footballing superstar Jude Bellingham as another youngster exciting prospect produced through Birmingham’s academy.
More importantly, Brandon is another British Asian who is breaking down the barriers within English football.
23-year-old Yan Dhanda signed a two-year deal in 2022 with Ross County who are in the Scottish Premiership.
Zidane Iqbal, a highly touted player committed his future to megaclub Manchester United earlier in 2022, planning to make a name for himself under his new boss, Erik Ten Hag.
Also, Dilan Markanday made a historic appearance for Tottenham Hotspur in a Europa Conference League game against Vitesse in 2021.
He was the first player of South Asian heritage to ever make an appearance in Spurs’ history.
Brandon has continued to shine in the ranks at Birmingham and there is no doubt this professional contract emphasises the potential he has.