Ireland could return for Saturday's FA Cup match versus Doncaster as he continues to recover from a groin injury.

The Irishman has not played since mid-October because of the muscle injury, and he will be assessed ahead of the match, as he is still said to be "a bit tight." Ireland is buried on the depth chart at the moment, but Saturday's match versus the League One side could represent an opportunity for him to make a cameo, as the club will be playing its fifth match in 14 days.

Ireland will not play in a match until January as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury.

There was some optimism that the Irishman could return during the festive period, but manager Mark Hughes will err on the side of caution in bringing him back from a lengthy absence. Ireland hasn't started this season, but he will provide the low-scoring Potters with an added attacking option off the bench upon his return.

Ireland (knock) is not in the 18-man squad to face Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Ireland isn't much of a regular player anyway, so his absence isn't a huge hit to Stoke or many fantasy rosters.

Ireland could miss out Saturday against Crystal Palace because of a knock, manager Mark Hughes said Friday.

Ireland has made just six appearances this season, with his last coming Oct. 19 against Swansea, so while he may miss out Saturday, it's unlikely to be detrimental to many fantasy teams.

Ireland was subbed on in the 59th minute for Marco Van Ginkel and got off four crosses and recorded a game-tying assist in a 2-2 draw with Spurs on Saturday.

Ireland has always been a threat in the Premier League and he's at it yet again. This very well may be Ireland's role all season long, as he'll be asked to be a super sub for a team who needs some depth. Look for him to be on the bench yet again next Saturday when Stoke take on Norwich.

Ireland notched a pair of assists in Stoke City's 3-1 victory over Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.

Ireland set up two of teammate Jonathan Walters' three goals Saturday, which followed Ireland's one-goal, one-assist effort during FA Cup play last Monday. Similarly, Ireland bagged a brace during Stoke's prior cup victory, giving him three goals and three assists in 2015. That form coupled with teammate Bojan (knee) being ruled out for the campaign could result in a slight revival from Ireland in the second half of this season.

Ireland (ribs) returned to training Tuesday, the Stoke Sentinel reports.

Ireland was sidelined with a pulled muscle in his rib cage since Aug. 22 and should face a fitness test ahead of this weekend's match against Leicester City. If he's unable to go, the midfielder will likely be cleared by next Saturday's game. In 25 appearances (14 starts) last season, Ireland produced two goals and two assists for the Potters.