Paik makes early return to Blues

[Getty Images] Birmingham midfielder Paik Seung-Ho has been released from international duty with South Korea due to injury. The 29-year-old was an unused substitute in the 3-0 home win over Ecuador last Thursday but missed Monday's 4-1 defeat against Uruguay and will not be available for Friday's friendly with Venezuela or Tuesday's match against Uzbekistan. The local media reported a statement from the Korea Football Association, saying: "Following a meeting with the coaching staff and medical team, it was determined that Paik Seung-ho needs to recover rather than play in the remaining matches. "For the protection of the player, he is scheduled to return to his club team." Paik has featured in all 10 Blues games this season, making four starts in the Championship, with four more sub appearances, and started both City's EFL Cup ties. He headed the second half winner as Blues came from behind to win 2-1 at Derby on 12 September. Birmingham's next game is the short trip to West Brom on Saturday, 10 October (12:30 BST). All the latest Birmingham City news