Stoke City manager Mark Hughes has admitted he needs to bring in defensive reinforcements in the January transfer window.

The Potters been swept in amongst the clubs fighting off relegation after a poor first-half to the season.

Injuries to their defenders have contributed to more goals in the against column, and Hughes says he will look to bolster his ranks next month.

"We're struggling a little bit with defensive personnel," he said. "We've lost our skipper again so they are piling up at the moment. We have to put square pegs in round holes at times.

"So it's a bit tough for the guys at the back, but we've just got to get through this period, get a few back and hopefully get a little bit of help in January as well because we're a little bit short. Then we'll be OK."