Birmingham City secured a place in round five of the FA Cup after overcoming Coventry City on penalties but it was a success that came at a cost.

That's after Josh McEachran was stretchered off in the first half and boss Pep Clotet has confirmed that things do not look good for the ex-Brentford midfielder.

This comes days after Blues sanctioned a loan move for David Davis, so if McEachran, as expected, faces a lengthy spell out, it will leave the team short in the middle of the park.

Therefore, they may be tempted to look for a few free agents and here we monitor THREE players they should consider...

Tom Carroll

The left-footer has just left Swansea City and would be able to fill the void of McEachran. The main quality of the current Blues midfielder is his ability on the ball and that's where Carroll excels too.

He is capable in possession, would provide the team with more creativity and ensure they can control games better.

Joe Ledley

Another option is Welsh international Ledley. Whilst he had an underwhelming spell with Charlton earlier this season, he could still do a job at this level until the end of the season.

Clotet doesn't need someone who is going to play week in, week out and Ledley could be the experienced figure that helps Blues see out certain games and will certainly be a positive influence in the changing room.

QUIZ: Can you name these 13 Birmingham City January signings?

Vurnon Anita

The versatile Dutchman is also without a club and could help Blues until the end of the season.

At his best, Anita was a sharp midfielder who read the game well and was comfortable on the ball but he has struggled over the past few years.

Yet, at 30, he should still have a lot to offer and this could be a risk worth taking for Clotet.