Davies close to Stoke City return

Davies signed for Stoke from Southampton in August

Former Southampton defender Andrew Davies hopes to make his debut for Stoke City before Christmas.

He will play for the reserves against Tottenham on Monday, as he continues his recovery from a knee injury.

"My knee feels much better, I just need a couple of reserve games under my belt and then I'll be ready," the 23-year-old told BBC Radio Stoke.

"I've worked a lot and I'm naturally fit so hopefully in a couple of weeks I'll be ready to go."

It has been a frustrating time for Davies, who signed for the Potters in August from Championship side Southampton for around £1.3m.

He was captain of the Saints, winning the Player of the Year award at St Mary's in 2008, and he wants to show the Stoke supporters what he is capable of.

"I'm sure a few people will have forgotten my name, but they won't have forgotten it when I get back.

"They can expect a full-hearted performance from me, I'm just looking forward to getting back and getting involved."