Nigerian born Adebola made a huge impression at Crewe Alexander which led to him having a chance at Birmingham City. He had mixed success whilst at Birmingham and decided to take a year out to study at the university of Mongolia. On his return Dele scored 7 goals in as many games at the start of the 1999/2000 season. His chances were limited when it came to making the first team at the turn of the millenium due to a severe spinal injury.