Steve Bruce’s latest return to St Andrew’s ended in stalemate as Sky Bet League One leaders Birmingham were held to a 0-0 draw against Blackpool.

The result ended City’s eight-match winning streak in all competitions but worse was the injury to their left-back Lee Buchanan.

Blackpool – managed by ex-City boss Bruce – were denied a third-minute lead.

Kyle Joseph’s clean-through shot was blocked by goalkeeper Ryan Allsop.

Buchanan, who made a block, looked like he suffered a serious knee injury, and there was a six-minute delay before he was taken off on a stretcher.

Birmingham’s only chance of the first hour was a low drive from Emil Hansson that Harry Tyrer palmed away.

Blues had another let off when Tyrer’s kick gave Ashley Fletcher a one against one, but his lob was deflected over.

The Tangerines almost scored in the 57th minute when Joseph fired against the inside of a post from a tight angle.

Birmingham substitute Jay Stansfield’s deflected shot was hacked off the line by Odeluga Offiah near the end.