Brummies have suffered through injuries (Getty)

Birmingham Brummies have signed Italian rider Mattia Carpanese to replace the injured James Birkinshaw.

The 22-year-old appeared for Workington in the Premier League last year but quit last August because of a lack of confidence in his riding.

Brummies boss Graham Drury said: "Mattia's been in a good run of form on the continent and we're pleased with the signing.

"We're up against it with injuries and this will help," he added.

Carpanese has been recruited as a short-term replacement for Birkinshaw, who is still complaining of pain in his neck and left side following a crash against Rye House earlier this month.

The Italian is likely to make his debut for the Brummies in the second leg of the Knockout Cup tie with Glasgow at Perry Barr on Wednesday.

The Brummies won the first leg 52-40 on Sunday where Jason Lyons scored 16+2, guest rider Jason King 11+1 and Adam Roynon 10+1.