Birmingham boss Alex McLeish insists the humiliating FA Cup third-round exit at the hands of Coca-Cola League One side Huddersfield can be "a watershed" for his side - but he admits a January spending spree could be needed to turn the tide.

McLeish's Blues started badly at the Galpharm Stadium, letting Danny Schofield and Chris Brandon fashion a third-minute goal for Luke Beckett and things only got worse as Brandon lashed home a winner in the closing minutes following Garry O'Connor's first-half equaliser.

The Terriers, struggling at 14th in their own division, showed more hunger for the win and their all-action display - typified by an assured full debut from youngster James Berrett - was a classic example of cup football.

And while defeat has stung the former Scotland and Rangers boss, he intends to use the bitter feeling as the catalyst for change at St Andrews.

"I've been assessing the players for a while now and everyone has had a crack," said McLeish.

"We definitely need to bring some people in because Birmingham fans deserve more than that.

"It could be a watershed but what it certainly shows is that we need a big improvement and there are players we need to add. That is an absolute fact."

McLeish, who inherited the current squad from former boss Steve Bruce, is believed to be chasing a number of defensive reinforcements as well as a proven goalscorer.

And he concedes that the transfer window will be a busy time for him as he looks to ensure Blues retain their top-flight status.

"I never thought this was an easy job. I've been looking at the squad, the competition and our rivals and we have shown we can be competitive. The players are much better than they showed against Huddersfield.

"It is not for public consumption but I know where I need to strengthen."

McLeish revealed he has already made tentative enquiries over some early targets but is convinced that he is unlikely to be the only manager looking at some of those players.

"I'm sure my competitors are looking in the same areas and it's going to be a big fight to get the right players in.

"We've thrown some seeds down and we hope they develop so we get some real quality in. We know we're competing with each other for players and there will be some daft figures thrown about."

For Huddersfield match-winner Brandon, whose coolly-taken volley to seal a place in the next round was his first goal of the season, it was a dream come true.

The 31-year-old was a latecomer to professional football having spent the early years of his career combining a part-time contract at Bradford Park Avenue with a job in a clothes shop.

"I was a late starter, I only signed as a pro at 23," said the midfielder.

"It was a great feeling to score. All the lads thoroughly deserved it and it's one of those things that you can't really describe. It was definitely up there (with the best moments of his career).

"It would be nice to get another Premier League club (in the fourth round). We went to Chelsea a couple of years ago and lost 2-1 so it would be nice to get Manchester United."

Brandon's long-term future at the Galpharm is currently undecided, but having enjoyed one of the defining moments of his footballing life he is eager to continue.

"I'm out of contract in the summer but you would have to ask the gaffer (Andy Ritchie) about that.

"I just want to enjoy my football and play for someone who wants me in the team. I reckon I've got a couple of years left in me - starting at 23 I think I haven't got the miles in my legs that some players have."

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