Brandon Khela becomes the first British South Asian footballer ever to sign a contract with Premier League second division side
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Brandon Khela, a Punjabi teenager, has become the first British South Asian footballer to sign professional terms with Sky Bet Championship club Birmingham City. Last season, the technically gifted midfielder played for Birmingham’s U18s before establishing himself at the U23 level in Premier League 2, and he turns professional after completing his first season as a scholar.
Lee Bowyer, the club’s first-team manager, rewarded Khela’s progress and performances by naming him to the bench in a 2-2 draw away at Stoke last season, just one month after his 17th birthday.
Former Arden Academy student Khela also received his first England youth call-up, appearing in both of England’s recent U17 friendlies against Norway and the United States.
Khela, 17, began playing football at the age of three and had the opportunity to join his hometown club Coventry City, but instead chose to move to Birmingham after being scouted by the club. He has since represented the Blues in every age group. Khela can play anywhere in the middle of the field and is currently training with the first-team squad ahead of their pre-season tour next week.
Khela appeared alongside highly-rated girls’ academy graduate Layla Banaras in the club’s kit launch, as Birmingham City embraced its rich cultural diversity for the launch of their new strip. Birmingham rewarded six second-year scholars for their progress earlier this week, with Alfie Brooks, Rico Browne, Tommy Fogarty, Rico Patterson, Callum Sullivan, and Kieran Wakefield all signing professional contracts.
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Birmingham City Supporters Club chairman declared the decision as a ‘huge landmark moment’
Chairman of Official Birmingham City Supporters’ Group Blues 4 All Micky Singh spoke with Sky Sports News and was delight about the anticipated announcement. “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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