Erik Pieters ruled out of Stoke City pre-season tour

Stoke City defender Erik Pieters has been ruled out of the club's pre-season tour of Asia while he recovers from a groin operation.

The 26-year-old is currently in the fourth week of a six-week rehabilitation programme after going under the knife to fix a persistent problem.

However, the Dutchman is expecting to be fully fit for the Potters' opening game of the season at home to Liverpool on August 9.

"I won't miss that game, I'll be ready," he told the club's official website. "It's near my birthday and my family are coming over. Everybody will be here and I won't miss that game for nothing!"

Pieters made 32 appearances in all competitions for Stoke during the 2014-15 campaign.