Stoke City defender Andy Wilkinson has avoided a lengthy ban after being sent off against FC Dallas in the US.

The Potters defender feared he would miss the opening game against Liverpool after being sent off against FC Dallas on Sunday.

But Wilkinson, 28, has escaped with just a one-match ban despite being punished for violent conduct.

And that means he will miss a friendly against Philadelphia Union today and be free to play against Liverpool at Anfield next month.