After a fortnight of big dreams and big talk around Eastlands, the Blues were disappointed to lose 1-3 at home to Chelsea on Saturday.

It was a sobering experience for the home supporters and a reminder of just how long the journey to the Barclays Premier League summit is going to be.

Not that Hughes needs telling. He already knew January would be a big month if lofty expectations are to have a hope of being realised this season.

good players

"There has been a lot of hype surrounding the club, so perhaps some of the comments are understandable," said the former Wales coach.

"But it is early days for us. When you think about it, we have had the benefit of one day in the transfer window to address the weaknesses that were in the team.

"We will have another opportunity in January, when we will try to bring more good players to the club.

"If we are still in touch, which we expect to be, we can sustain a challenge right to the end."