Kessler out for season.

Stoke have been rocked by the news that Robbie Kessler will miss the rest of the season. The German international has been out for several weeks after breaking his arm riding in Sweden, and has had an unsuccessful operation in Germany.

He is now booked to go into Doncaster Hospital next Friday for a bone graft. "It is a blow that somehow typifies our season," said Potters promoter Dave Tattum.

Stoke have not enjoyed the best of luck with injuries this season and for a side touted early season as potential champions those injuries have taken their toll and the Potters lurk in the lower reaches of the table.