Stoke City goalkeeper Jack Butland has revealed that he will leave the club on loan in a bid to boost his World Cup chances.
The keeper is currently second choice behind Asmir Begovic at the Britannia Stadium and understands that he is unlikely to edge out the Bosnian this season.
Butland admits that he needs to play regularly if he has any chance of making England's World Cup squad next summer, should they qualify. Sporting Lisbon and Sheffield Wednesday are believed to be interested in bringing Butland in on loan.
"It will be sorted out in the next few weeks so there is no worry there," Butland told reporters. "Without a doubt, to go to Rio is my target.
"I know the only chance of me getting there is to be playing week in, week out and putting in extremely good performances. I want to make sure I do that to give myself the best opportunity of going.
"It is difficult being a keeper because only one of you can play – and I have no shame in not playing because of Asmir. He is an incredible keeper, but I have improved since I joined Stoke and that is important to me."
Butland joined Stoke in January from Birmingham City.
Sam Hughes
