Mark Robins delivers upbeat Stoke City injury update but key man will miss Blackburn Rovers

Stoke City manager Mark Robins has delivered an encouraging squad update despite confirming midfielder Ethan Galbraith will miss Tuesday's match against Blackburn Rovers due to suspension. Forward Lamine Cisse is targeting a return around Christmas after an ankle injury showed a better prognosis than initially feared. Meanwhile, striker Sam Gallagher and defender Eric Bocat are nearing returns from their respective injuries.

Robins also welcomed Svante Ingelsson back from injury and Million Manhoef from compassionate leave during Stoke's recent 2-0 victory over Preston. While Bocat is targeting the upcoming international break, defender Aaron Cresswell is also close to returning as Stoke's injury list begins to ease.