Opinion: Stoke City face contract crossroads with 28-year-old’s deal coming to an end

Stoke City could be set for a complete rebuild this summer as they look to finally make some progression since they were relegated from the Premier League in 2018.

The Potters have now been stuck in the second tier of English football for four years, and they could be about to have their fourth manager in as many years by the time next season starts.

Michael O’Neill’s future is up in the air following another campaign where the Potters failed to progress and become a play-off team – they may still finish in the top half of the Championship but the hierarchy will have been expecting more for the money that has been invested.

And when it comes to the playing squad looking at next season, there could be a potential mass exodus at the Bet365 Stadium with expiring contracts left, right and centre.

Ever since relegation nearly four years ago, the wage bill has been very high and steps have been taken gradually to reduce that, and if it wasn’t for the Coates Family and their generous financial donations then Stoke would be in major trouble.

The last of Stoke’s expensive Premier League squad in Joe Allen will probably depart at the end of the season, and 13 other players could leave as well when you take into account expiring loan deals and contracts that are coming to an end.

One of those contracts that will conclude in June is that of Nick Powell’s, and he provides an interesting case.

The attacking midfielder has always had natural talent since he was a youngster at Crewe Alexandra – that is why Manchester United splashed out on him – but injuries have always been a constant source of frustration wherever he’s been.

That was until he signed for Stoke from Wigan Athletic in 2019 – apart from a spell at the start of his first