Stoke City release Jordan Cousins but John Obi Mikel & James Chester stay

Jordan Cousins appeared largely off the bench for Stoke this season

Stoke City have released midfielder Jordan Cousins but John Obi Mikel and centre-back James Chester will remain at the Championship club.

Cousins, 27, made 45 appearances in two seasons with the Potters.

Former Chelsea man Mikel, 34, and ex-Aston Villa defender Chester, 32, have had contract extensions activated.

Mikel won a Champions League and two Premier League titles with Chelsea and is a former Nigeria international, regularly captaining Stoke last season.

He played 41 times for the Potters in 2020-21 after joining from Turkish side Trabzonspor, while Wales international Chester played 33 times.