Stoke City chairman Peter Coates says no-one has lost faith in Giannelli Imbula.

The 24-year-old midfielder is now fighting for his place as Mark Hughes's team return to action against Sunderland this weekend.

Coates told The Sentinel: “I am sure Giannelli will want to prove himself – and prove himself to the manager. He's the one who picks the team.

“He's a huge talent and he's got to show he can get up to the speed of the Premier League; that's the challenge for him.

“He's got loads of ability and I hope the fans will be patient with him to show his potential. We all need encouragement and he is no different.

“I hope everyone can get behind him like they get behind the rest of the squad."