The 30-year-old has lost his place in Tony Pulis' line-up to new signing Danny Collins who joined from Sunderland in August for £2.75m.

Higginbotham was an ever present last season as Stoke upset the odds and avoided relegation in their first season back in the top flight.

The former Southampton player has started just one match since the arrival of Collins but has promised to work hard in training to win his place back.

my chance

"The manager is entitled to do what he feels is right," Higginbotham said.

"Danny's come into the team and done well, so I just have to be patient and take my chance when it comes.

"I don't think I've got anything to prove to anybody. I just want to enjoy my football and that's what I'm here to do."