Michael Tonge is willing to bide his time at Stoke, despite his lack of first-team opportunities this term.
The midfielder joined the Potters from Sheffield United over the summer in a £2million deal.
He had been regarded as one of the finest talents outside of the Premier League and was expected to play a key role in Stoke's battle to maintain their top-flight status.
However, he has been awarded just one start since arriving at the Britannia Stadium as Tony Pulis keeps faith with a settled side.
Tonge has refused to rule out the possibility of heading out on loan in the coming weeks as he looks to find regular action, but insists he still has every intention of establishing himself at Stoke.
"I've not really spoken to the manager about going out, to be honest, but it's maybe something to look at if I don't get to play in the next month or so," Tonge told The Sentinel.
"It's difficult for the manager because he wants to keep players here and available, just in case.
"You're going to find people in my situation these days because squads are so big. I'm just a victim of circumstances, but I'm definitely ready to play when the call comes.
"I'm pretty positive as a person and you certainly don't want to get to the stage where your head is down."
Tonge knows his opportunity to impress Pulis will come along eventually, having seen the likes of Danny Pugh and Glenn Whelan step out of the shadows this season.
"It is frustrating, but there isn't much you can do at the minute, just wait for that chance to come," added the 25-year-old.
"I had a period at Sheffield when I started the season, but didn't play again after that until after Christmas, so I have dealt with this before.
"It's a big squad at Stoke so you just have to be patient. And there are lads, like Danny Pugh, who weren't playing earlier in the season who are now in and around the team.
"Like them, you just have to tell yourself it's a case of waiting to get your chance and then taking it."
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