Stoke City Football Club

• Nickname:Potters
• Founded:1863
• Manager:Tony Pulis

• Ground:Britannia Stadium
• Capacity:28218

Shawcross drops out of squad

25 Mar 2009 - 12:47:27

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Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross has been forced to pull out of the England Under-21 squad to face Norway and France due to injury.

Shawcross was added to the squad earlier this week after Newcastle United's Steven Taylor dropped out, but has now succumbed to injury himself.

Meanwhile, Potters chairman Peter Coates believes City need another eight points to ensure they avoid relegation this season.

Stoke are currently three points clear of the relegation zone with eight matches of the season left but Coates is remaining cautious, saying: "It could be less, but I think 40 points will keep us up.

"I'd certainly take that now and take my chances with 40 points, but obviously you don't look too far ahead. You just go out to try to win every game you can.

"Every match has been a battle for us - and will remain so to the very end of the season. Every game is critical.

"I think we've done very well collectively and everyone has played their part, one way or another. We haven't panicked as a club at any time this season, and nor has the crowd."