^ CLICK IMAGE ABOVE TO SEE THE 4 BIGGEST EFL STORIES OF THE DAY ^

A full programme of EFL fixtures is looming, but before we kick-off, here we highlight the four biggest EFL stories of the day.........

Stoke City goalkeeper Jack Butland could be heading out of the bet365 Stadium, with West Ham weighing up their options and considering a loan bid, according for a former WHU employee.

The 26-year-old's future at the bet365 Stadium is uncertain having enduring a hugely frustrating campaign thus far, making only 10 appearances and with being linked with moves to both Aston Villa and Bournemouth

Sunderland manager Phil Parkinson is looking to strengthen his squad with the Black Cats among a trio of clubs keen on Scottish winger Owen McGinty, according to a report in The Scottish Sun.

The 18-year-old wideman is attracting interest from the Black Cats, whilst Swansea and Bournemouth are also believed to be keeping tabs on the player who is assessing his options before signing for a club.

Leeds United get back to Championship action following the international break, with a trip to Luton Town at the weekend, but one player who is a long-way off being available for manager Marcelo Bielsa is midfielder Adam Forshaw, who as of yet has no date for his return from injury.

Bielsa stated at his pre-match press conference ahead of the Luton clash, that "Ezgjan Alioski is okay, but with Adam Forshaw, we don’t know yet."

Michael O'Neill has appointed a new number two in time for his home debut as Stoke City boss tomorrow with Billy McKinlay being unveiled this morning as the club's new assistant manager, as confirmed on the club website.

The 50 year-old Scot has worked previously alongside O'Neill with Northern Ireland and enjoyed an extensive coaching career, with O'Neill saying: “Billy and I have known each other since the early 1990's when we were teammates and I’m delighted to welcome him to the staff at Stoke City.