Key Birmingham star stretchered off after controversial moment in potential promotion blow

Birmingham star Jay Stansfield has been taken to hospital after suffering a potentially season-ending injury.

The striker left the pitch on a stretcher against Bradford in the Vertu Trophy semi-final clash at St Andrew's on Tuesday night.

It was Stansfield who broke the deadlock in first half stoppage time to bring up his 21st goal this season in all competitions.

But his evening came to an end early in the second half in a hugely controversial moment.

Stansfield, who joined from Fulham in a deal rising to £20million last summer, thought he had won his side a penalty after being clipped by Romoney Crichlow inside the box.

The Blues' appeals were waved away by the official, with Bradford going up the other end to equalise through Bobby Pointon in the 52nd minute.

To make matters worse for the hosts, Stansfield failed to get up, with medics quickly rushing to his aid.

And after seven minutes, the 22-year-old made his way off the pitch on a stretcher - which could have huge ramifications on the rest of Birmingham's season.

Sky Sports' commentary team later revealed that the centre-forward had made his way to the hospital to discuss the severity of his knock.

But Tom Brady-backed Blues look set to have the last laugh on the night with Lyndon Dykes putting them 2-1 up.

With Birmingham top of the League One table and targeting an instant return to the Championship, they will be desperate their prize asset hasn't suffered a long-term problem.

More to follow...