Bio

Brandon Singh Khela (born 19 January 2005) is an English professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for EFL Championship club Birmingham City. In 2022, Khela became the first British South Asian to sign a professional contract with the club. Khela grew up in a Sikh family in Birmingham and was introduced to football at a young age by his father and agent, Dov Singh Khela. He attended Arden Academy in Solihull. Khela signed a two-year professional deal with Birmingham City FC in May 2021 after impressing the coaching staff with his performances in the academy. Khela's signing was celebrated as a significant milestone in the club's history and a source of inspiration for young British South Asians who aspire to play at the highest level. Under-18s Lead Coach, Martyn Olorenshaw said that "he backs up these attributes with serious talent, being a technically gifted midfield player who likes to create from central areas and also has an eye for goal, with such ability recently earning him international recognition." During the previous season, Brandon Khela played in 14 league matches for Martyn Olorenshaw's team and eight times for Steve Spooner's development squad. As a result of his performances, he was selected to be a part of Lee Bowyer's matchday squad for the team's trip to Stoke City in February. On 8 August 2023, Khela made his Birmingham City professional debut, replacing Keshi Anderson in the 81st minute of a 2-0 Carabao Cup victory over Cheltenham Town at Whaddon Road. He made his first Championship appearance on 3 October as a late substitute in a 4–1 win at home to Huddersfield Town. In May 2022, he was called up for England U17's to face Norway and USA in away matches. Khela's Sikh faith has played a significant role in his life and career. He has spoken about how his faith has helped him to stay focused and maintain a positive attitude, even in the face of adversity. In April 2023, Brandon and his brother Reiss (who is an academy player at Leicester City F.C) spoke at a Vaisakhi event hosted by the FA at Wembley Stadium.