Odemwingie still not fully fit

Stoke striker Peter Odemwingie admits he is still a few months away from peak fitness following his knee injury. Odemwingie made a late return to action last season after eight months out, while in July he was handed a contract extension by the Potters until the end of the 2015-16 campaign.The Nigeria international, 34, will have the option of a further 12 months next summer, and for now is keen to repay the faith of manager Mark Hughes.As Stoke prepare for the season opener against Liverpool, who they thrashed 6-1 in the final game of 2014-15, Odemwingie told Stoke City Player: "It's been nine months now. "I'm still a few months away from being 100 per cent, but I am happy with where I am now. I do all the necessary work. Fitness now is what I want to achieve - there's no shortcuts. "I just have to make those efforts off the ball as well, which I try my best to do, which will bring me back to my best physical condition."

Source: PA