Lambert: No qualms about exiling Berahino

Berahino has been expelled from the first squad, to train with the U23s after the striker's poor timekeeping and application landed him in hot water with Lambert. 

Jese Rodriguez has also been blacklisted after failing to return to Stoke after being granted compassionate leave, and the on-loan PSG player will not be featuring again.

Lambert was asked if he felt comfortable with eliminating two of his forward options after Stoke drew 1-1 with Burnley.

The 'Potters' boss was particularly assured in his response, he said: ''One hundred per cent, I've got no qualms whatsoever. It's my decision and it is right for the football club. That's the decision I have made.'' 

Club chairman Peter Coates revealed that the Stoke City board will stand behind Lambert's decisions regardless of the outcome.