Mark Hughes defends Peter Odemwingie, Geoff Cameron omission

Mark Hughes has defended his decision to leave Peter Odemwingie and Geoff Cameron out of Stoke City's squad for their opening game of the Premier League season.

The duo missed out on the team's 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa last weekend, but could both return for tomorrow's trip to Hull City.

The manager told reporters: "It was a precaution last week because I was a bit concerned they hadn't had a great deal of football in pre-season.

"I felt they needed another week's training, and I have to say this week they have been excellent, so they are in my thoughts.

"It's about managing resources rather than taking the risk to be honest. We have a good squad and so we can do that to an extent this season."

Stoke finished ninth in the Premier League table last season.