Stoke City will be hoping they can challenge for a top-six finish in the Championship next season, whilst under the management of Michael O'Neill. 

The Potters finished this year's campaign 14th in the second tier standings, and will eager to build on some strong performances from this term, as they turn their attentions to the 2021/22 campaign.

They showed glimpses of their quality during this season, and the club's supporters will be hoping that they can hit the ground running in August, when the new Championship campaign gets underway.

It could be an interesting few weeks ahead at the bet365 Stadium, as O'Neill looks to build his squad ahead of their season opener, with arrivals and departures still likely this summer.

We take a look at TWO Stoke City players who could depart this summer, and it wouldn't come as much of a surprise to see them head for the exit door in the near future.

Ryan Woods 

Woods is likely to be heading for the exit door in the next month or two, with the midfielder seemingly not part of Michael O'Neill's plans for the 2021/22 campaign with Stoke City.

It has recently been revealed by Birmingham Live that Birmingham City are believed to be keen on signing Woods this summer, as they look to strengthen their options in midfield.

Woods spent the 2020/21 season on loan with Millwall, and caught the eye with a number of strong performances for Gary Rowett's side.

It seems that Woods' future is away from Stoke City, and Birmingham will be hoping they can secure an agreement to land his signature in the near future.

 

 

Sam Vokes 

Vokes has been with Stoke City since 2019, but has found regular game time hard to come by in recent seasons.

The Welshman made 30 league appearances in total for the Potters in the 2020/21 campaign, but only five of those were starts in the Championship, which will be frustrating for experienced forward.

A clear-out is needed in the Stoke City squad ahead of another season in the second tier of English football, and getting Vokes' wages off the wage bill could be the ideal scenario for all parties involved, as it would give the forward a chance to find a club that can offer him regular minutes ahead of the new league campaign.