Preston North End boss Alan Irvine has started talks with Stoke City over extending Michael Tonge's loan. Irvine recently admitted that he could not afford to sign the 26-year-old on a permanent basis, but is keen to prolong his stay at Deepdale.

"I have had initial discussions with Tony Pulis regarding Michael," Irvine told the Lancashire Evening Post.

"We've agreed to get this game out of the way then we can talk further about it.

"Stoke obviously don't want to commit themselves too much at this stage just in case they pick up a few injuries from the Christmas games.

"But once the loan ends and we have a bit of time to talk, I think the picture will become slightly more clear.

"It's Stoke decision what happens first and foremost, then Michael's, then we can make a decision after that. I've been really pleased with what he's done here. Michael is a good passer of the ball, turns well and he's given us something a bit different.

"He has enjoyed it here, he needed to play some first-team football and we've been able to give him that."