Stephen Ireland is unsure where he stands at Stoke City.

The midfielder has yet to launch his comeback towards competitive action after being sidelined since last May with a double leg fracture.

Potters chairman Peter Coates told The Sentinel: “Sadly, it seems to have been slow progress with Stephen in terms of his recovery.

“Whether we shall see him again this season, I am not sure, but it would clearly be nice to think so.

“As for his future, I have to say it is not something we have discussed as yet, but when we do it will be a case of what Mark wants to do."