Stoke City hope to have Ricardo Fuller back in action sooner rather than later, after initial tests confirmed that the striker did not suffer a broken shoulder in the 2-1 win at Newcastle United.

Fuller did sustain a dislocated right shoulder, but the Potters now hope that the damage to ligaments will be minor and that the talented frontman could be back in action in around a fortnight.

Manager Tony Pulis had said before learning of the likely positive prognosis:"We're just keeping our fingers crossed that they will be able to just pop back it in.

"When Ric dislocated his shoulder a couple of seasons ago he was only out for ten days, so we're hoping that will be the case again.

"If he is out for any longer, then it will be a massive blow to us because he is a game changer.

"In a situation like this when a game opens up, he's as good as anyone at coming on and making a difference – he was bright and fresh before the injury."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email