Stoke City were dealt an irritating injury blow against Preston North End, when Irishman James McClean was forced off with a knee problem.

McClean has been a key member of their squad this season, and has made 28 appearances, whilst being on hand to score six goals and provide five assists in all competitions this term.

Stoke have struggled for any sort of consistency in this year's league campaign, and are currently sat 17th in the Championship table, just four points clear of the relegation zone.

Speaking in an interview with Stoke's official website, Potters boss Michael O'Neill revealed the long-term absentees from his squad, whilst also issuing a positive update on the fitness of winger James McClean.

"The positive aspect from our point is that when we resume we’ll only have two longer-term injuries in Joe Allen and Thibaud Verlinden. We wouldn’t anticipate that they would be back by the time we start playing again.

"The other injuries, people like James McClean and one or two players on the periphery of things who have had one or two niggles, they should all be fine for when we resume training and playing."

Due to recent events, McClean and his Stoke City team-mates aren't due back in action until the 2nd May, when they take on high-flying Nottingham Forest, although that scheduled return date could be pushed further back if the off-the-field problems are to worsen in the coming weeks.

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The Verdict: 

This is a promising update on McClean's fitness heading into a crucial period of this year's campaign.

He's been a key player for Stoke this season, and Michael O'Neill will be hoping he is deemed fit enough when competitive action returns.

The break from football could prove to be a blessing in disguise for the Potters, as it gives some players a chance to return before the season reaches a conclusion.

Stoke haven't been anywhere near good enough this season, but they'll be focused on getting the job done in retaining their Championship status for another year at the earliest of opportunities.