Stoke have to deal with a season in the Championship for the first time in 10 years.

Gary Rowett was appointed to replace Paul Lambert after a disappointing spell in charge which ended in relegation from the Premier League. He will want to overhaul a squad full of ageing players past their best as well as bringing in players who fit his style of play.

There should be some big changes this window, then, as they look to get themselves straight back into the top flight, whilst also recovering from the departure of any big players.

Meanwhile, other fringe players will need to step up to the plate and prove themselves this pre-season.

Indeed, this pre-season will be key in determining the future of a number of players because Rowett is yet to see them play. Here are three players whose places in the team are under threat and that need to prove themselves this summer...

Cameron was involved in 20 league games last season as he filled in at a number of different positions, but he was unable to hold down a consistent first-team spot. His versatility could be useful, but they do have other options in the positions that he filled in for.

He will have to prove that he has the quality to be a consistent first-teamer because Rowett is likely to streamline this squad in order to make it competitive and ensure the Potters can bring in top signings for this level. This summer is a good opportunity to prove himself to a new manager, though.

Afellay only made six league appearances all season and he is likely to be a high earner in the squad due to his career path. The Potters can't afford to keep players like him if they contribute little to the squad.

He needs to use the pre-season to show that he can be a star player in the Championship because he's unlikely to receive many offers due to his stock going down in his time in England. There is a talented player there somewhere even if he is past his peak, but he needs to start showing it on a consistent basis.

Berahino has been a flop since he moved to Stoke from West Brom because he is yet to score for the senior side in 30 games. He is another player who has talent, but doesn't appear to want to or be able to show it for the Potters.

This summer is important for his place in the team, but also for his future because he could plummet dangerously down the divisions if he doesn't start showing the ability that made him such a desired target in the first place. The Championship should be a suitable division for him to find his form because he's used to the Premier League standard of defending. However, he needs to start with a positive summer.