[goldenHuddlestone]

Birmingham striker Cameron Jerome is to use the break for internationals to clear up a long-standing groin problem.

Jerome, who started Blues’ derby match against Aston Villa on Sunday, will undergo a hernia operation on Tuesday and hopes to be back fit in time for his team’s next match at home to Portsmouth on November 24.

The former Cardiff striker, who has featured in all 13 of his team’s Premier League matches this term, scoring three goals, admits the injury has been getting worse and worse.

"I am going in for a hernia operation on Tuesday,” said Jerome. “Hopefully I am just going to be out for the international period so it has come as a good time for me.

"It has been troubling me for a while so we are going to get it sorted. I've had a groin problem since pre-season but I've just been getting on with it but it has been getting worse and worse.

"The time has come with the international break to get it done. It is a quick procedure and hopefully I'll be back soon for when Birmingham start playing again."