Stoke City left-back Erik Pieters is set to miss the club's pre-season tour of Asia as he continues his rehabilitation following groin surgery this summer.

The Potters will play Everton in their Barclays Asia Trophy opener on July 15 before meeting either Arsenal or the Singapore Select XI three days later but Dutchman Pieters will not be part of the Singapore trip.

"I had surgery during the holidays and now I'm building my fitness back up," the 26-year-old told Stoke City Player.

"I spoke with everyone here and we think the best choice is to stay back and let the boys focus on what's happening over there.

"Of course I will miss them but I think the best way is to stay here to try and get fitter with my own work.

"This is now my fourth week and it's around a six-week process. I'm on schedule and everything feels good, it's now time for me to push on."