Director of Football John Rudge has revealed that although the pre-season friendlies due to take place in Austria are not yet confirmed, there could be news early next week.

"We have been working ever-so-hard behind the scenes to sort the friendlies out but cannot confirm anything yet.

"We know the supporters like to know early, and so do we, but talks are still ongoing.

"What I can say is that we have pencilled in a game with a local club to take place on the Tuesday at the hotel complex, and we are looking to play another game on the Friday which will be about 30 minutes drive away," Rudge explained.

The Potters first friendly is just over a week away when Tony Pulis' side make the short trip to the Lyme Valley Stadium for the annual curtain-opener with Newcastle Town.

The following weekend they face Macclesfield Town away on the Friday night before flying over to Austria the following day.

And although the squad leave for the continent in 15 days time, Rudge is adamant everything will be sorted out.

"There have been lots of enquiries made and we're hoping we get news back on these enquiries early next week," added Rudge.

Be sure to check stokecityfc.com next week for news of the opponents for the pre-season friendlies in Austria.