Wilkinson boost for Stoke

Wilkinson was sent off for a challenge late on in Stoke's 1-0 victory over FC Dallas on Saturday during their pre-season tour to the US.

Manager Mark Hughes had feared the full-back would be handed a ban that would see him miss the first game of the season at Anfield on August 17.

However, Wilkinson will instead have to sit out the final game of Stoke's tour against Philadelphia Union on Tuesday night.

A statement on www.stokecityfc.com read: "Stoke City can confirm that defender Andy Wilkinson will serve an immediate one-match suspension following his dismissal in Saturday's 1-0 pre-season friendly victory against FC Dallas.

"The news, which has been confirmed by the Football Association, ensures that Wilkinson is available for selection for the 2013/14 curtain raiser against Liverpool at Anfield."

Source: PA

Source: PA