Stoke City will look to get back to winning ways this afternoon when they welcome Cardiff City to the bet365 Stadium.

The Welsh side will provide a stern test to the Potters as they are in with a shout of a top six finish, whilst Stoke's task hasn't been made easier by the news that James McClean has picked up an injury.

The winger was forced off in the recent defeat to Preston and even though most expected him to miss today's game, boss Michael O'Neill confirmed that McClean is facing a six-week absence.

It's fair to say that the 30-year-old wasn't always a favourite among the Stoke fans but he has enjoyed a real resurgence under the new manager and has quickly established himself as one of the most important players in the team.

Therefore, when FLW reporter Chris Gallagher asked the Stoke City News and Gossip Facebook Group just how big a setback this was, the supporters made it clear this was a real problem for the team.

Do you know where these 15 ex-Stoke City players are playing now?

Here's some of the reaction from Twitter...

Giulio Presti: Massive.

James Scfc Mills: Massive blow.

Andrew Norman: Very, very big for Stoke City, he has been putting in the goals.

Ann Taylor: big blow player of the season so far

Alan Frank Whiston: It could be the coup de grace. That’s how bad it is. He was the inspiration for the team with his energy, skill and commitment, in my humble opinion of course. We’ll see!

Matt Fynn: It's nice to see the love for him.

Mark Wilton: Massive blow I wish the other players had his energy and commitment we wouldn’t be in this MESS.

Thomas Emery: League One awaiting.