Monday 13 October 2014 14:04, UK
Andy Wilkinson is aware that he may have to begrudgingly leave Stoke City in search of regular first team football.
The 30-year-old defender has spent his entire career date with Stoke, clocking up close to 200 appearances.
He has taken in loan spells over the course of the last 14 years, but has always returned to the Britannia Stadium.
Wilkinson has, however, slipped behind Geoff Cameron in Mark Hughes’ plans and admits that the time has come for him to consider other options.
It's quite easy to get forgotten about when you're not playing. I think I need to go and play some games somewhere on loan and maybe see where my situation lies.
He told The Sentinel: "It's quite easy to get forgotten about when you're not playing. I think I need to go and play some games somewhere on loan and maybe see where my situation lies.
"I spoke to the gaffer last week and I think it's okay for me to go.
"You train hard every day, and I've done my best to get into the squad, but it's just not happening, so it's time for me to play some games and then review it from there.
"I need to get out to get some fitness, whether to go and come back, or to look for another club next season."
Wilkinson added: "I'm grown up about it. This is a club going forward and if I'm not pushing for a place I think I will have to go.
"If it's just my face doesn't fit, or it's about my ability, I'm grown up about it and ready for another challenge.
"I think there's a few options, but I'm just weighing it up and making sure it's right for the family as well.
"It will be hard to leave, but I need to play. This is my 15th season as a Stoke player, so it's a bit mental. It will be upsetting, but it has to be done.
"It's been an amazing journey, but whether it's now the end, or I come back and kick on, we'll see."
