CHRIS Hughton has revealed that he wants up to three players to boost his Birmingham City squad.

Irrespective of whether Liam Ridgewell ends up leaving St Andrew’s, following Jean Beausejour out the exit door, the manager has his heart set.

Chris Wood’s decision to join Bristol City on loan from Albion instead of renew at Blues has put Hughton a striker short.

And the hole left by Beausejour’s departure to Wigan Athletic has to be covered too.

Hughton has been busy making inquiry after inquiry and although there is nothing imminent, he said he expected that there would be additions.

Championship clubs can arrange loans after the transfer window has shut, from February 7.

Asked by the Birmingham Mail how many players he wanted to bring in, Hughton replied: “Certainly two or three.

“If that can be done sooner rather than later then that’s always the best solution.

“Of course, we know we can do that after the window closes.

“But what we do have also are players here with an opportunity. Someone like Nathan Redmond who, for me, has had a good season so far.

“I think we have worked him quite well. And the fact that Jean Beausejour has gone leaves an opening for Nathan to perhaps play more games and establish himself a bit more.

“But, yes, we do need to boost the squad a bit more, probably with two or three.”

“At this moment, no, nothing is imminent,” added Hughton. “There are plenty of conversations.

“It is a difficult time. I am conscious that whatever player I bring in, they have got to be the right player.

“Chris Wood came in and was there a touch of risk? He’s young player who had a good loan spell at Brighton last year, of course in a lesser division.

“But it felt right and it was one that worked out very well. I was quite disappointed we weren’t able to get him back.