Stoke striker Sidibe nears return

Stoke would have seven points less this season without Sidibe's goals

Stoke City have received their second injury boost in 24 hours with the news that Mamady Sidibe could return for their next match against Portsmouth.

The Mali international striker could be fit for the game on 21 February after two months out with a knee problem.

He told BBC Radio Stoke: "My fitness is there and if everything goes well, I hope to be back for Portsmouth."

It is more good news for Stoke after Ricardo Fuller was told his shoulder injury is not as bad as first feared.

Fuller dislocated his shoulder in the defeat at Sunderland, but scans and X-rays showed no further damage and he could be back in full training before the end of March.

Sidibe was injured in the 0-0 draw against Fulham at the Britannia Stadium on 13 December.

In Sidibe's absence, Stoke manager Tony Pulis has signed two new strikers - James Beattie from Sheffield United and Henri Camara from Wigan Athletic.

"I know I will have to wait for my chance because it's been nearly two months since I got injured," said Sidibe.

"We needed to bring players in, that's what we have done, and it's good for the team.

"The way we play is good for me. I have been here a long time so I am used to it, so I think that's the difference between myself and the other strikers at the club."