Defender future doubt for Potters

Stoke defender Ryan Shawcross has hinted he would rather leave the club than be demoted permanently to the bench.

The former Manchester United youngster only joined the Potters on a permanent basis in January after a loan spell, but found himself among the substitutes last weekend.

And Shawcross claims that if boss Tony Pulis adds to his defensive ranks before the transfer window closes, he will consider his future at the Britannia Stadium.

He told the BBC: "If the manager brings someone else in then maybe I'll have to look at my future. But at the minute I'm delighted to be a Stoke player, I'm happy to be here."

Shawcross added: "That's the way football is. I was left out last year and bounced back and I'm sure I can do that again but it's always disappointing when you don't play."