Bright Osayi-Samuel recorded five more recoveries than any other player across the EFL on matchday one according to OptaJoe, as Birmingham City began their 2026/27 Championship campaign with a goalless draw against Sheffield United on Saturday.
OptaJoe, the official X page for Stats Perform’s football coverage, highlighted the Nigerian fullback’s impressive defensive numbers, with his 16 possession recoveries the highest recorded by any player across the EFL on the opening weekend.
The 28-year-old also registered the most touches in the game with 74 and completed two dribbles, joint-most among all players in the contest, underlining his influence at both ends of the pitch.
Despite Osayi-Samuel’s strong individual display, Birmingham were unable to claim victory, settling for a point in their Championship opener.
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Bright Osayi-Samuel had already impressed earlier in the season, featuring in Birmingham’s 1-0 EFL Cup victory over Swansea. August Priske scored the only goal of the game to send the Blues into the second round.
The right back will now look to maintain his impressive start when Birmingham host Bristol City on Saturday, August 22. Three days later, the Blues will welcome Premier League opposition when Brentford visit St Andrew’s in the second round of the EFL Cup.
Osayi-Samuel joined Birmingham from Fenerbahçe ahead of the 2025/26 campaign and has since made 31 appearances for the club across all competitions.
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