Stoke City coach Callum Davidson insists the club will not be taking any risks with Sam Clucas as the midfielder returns from injury.

The former Hull City man, who was a £6m summer signing, is yet to feature for the Potters after arriving with a knee injury following surgery in May.

And, he appeared to suffer a setback when he didn't play in the Checkatrade Trophy game against Morecambe in the week.

However, Davidson reassured fans that he is making good progress when speaking to Stoke-On-Trent Live.

"Sam’s doing really well but when you’ve been out for so long it’s a difficult one, you need to be really careful and cautious. You can always pick up little niggles if you’re working so hard to get back fit."

Given the depth and quality that Gary Rowett has in midfield, Stoke have the numbers to cope without Clucas and Davidson acknowledged that whilst confirming they will be patient with the summer recruit.

"I know we just need to be patient with Sam and make sure he is fully fit and raring to go. The good thing for us is that the team is doing well and we can afford to take slightly longer with Sam to make sure he’s completely ready to play."

Stoke are back in action against Birmingham after the international break where they will be looking for a third successive win.

The Verdict

Davidson hasn't given much away in terms of why Clucas didn't feature in the week and fans may be slightly concerned about that.

However, as he says, niggles happen when you're working your way back to fitness and Clucas did suffer a pretty serious injury.

Ultimately, they have to be patient but there's no doubt Clucas will be a decent option for Rowett once he is up to speed.

Thoughts, Stoke fans? Let us know in the comments below.