After their relegation from the Premier League, Stoke City were pre-season favourites to bounce back at the first time of asking. But how it went wrong for the Potters, as they finished 16th in the Championship, barely pushing for promotion. Now, with Nathan Jones taking charge in his first full season with the club, can he return Stoke to the promised land in 2019/20?
Stoke City Season Preview
What’s New at Stoke?
Since last season, Stoke have a new man at the helm in Nathan Jones, who guided Luton Town to promotion from League Two. Stoke have seen a number of players leave, like Darren Fletcher, Charlie Adam and Geoff Cameron, to trim the wage bill. They have brought in players with Championship experience, with Lee Gregory from Millwall and Nick Powell from Wigan standing out. Jones, however, is working with much the same squad which severely under-performed last season.
Players to Watch
Benik Afobe
Many expected Afobe to deliver goals for Stoke’s promotion charge last season, but only nine goals in 49 appearances left fans disappointed. He remains, however, a prolific striker at this level, as shown by his experience with Wolverhampton Wanderers. If he can get the service from his team-mates, he can spearhead their attack on the Premier League.
Tom Ince
Ince is one of many players who are electric in the Championship, but who fail to make an impression in the Premier League. His three years with Derby County were fruitful, and he showcased his dangerous dribbling and pace. Ince was expected to replicate these qualities after joining Stoke last summer but did not deliver. However, he still has the potential to terrify defences at this level and could be crucial to Jones’ promotion push.
Nick Powell
Things never worked out for Powell after his move to Manchester United. Loan spells culminated in a move to Wigan. His creativity in the final third and eye for goal from midfield make him a nightmare at this level. After performing well for Wigan, he has now landed in Stoke on a free transfer, which could prove one of the signings of the season. If he replicates the form that caught the eye of Manchester United, he could be crucial for Stoke this season.
Can Nathan Jones Deliver a Much-Desired Promotion?
Stoke suffered a rude awakening last season, and it would have been an important lesson for their squad. Now, after adjusting to the intensity of the second division, they have no excuses for not finishing in at least a play-off position. Realistically, with the squad at their disposal, they should be aiming for automatic promotion. They have a plethora of attackers proven at this level, and their defence was among the best last season.
With Ryan Shawcross likely out for a large portion of the season, it remains to be seen if their defence is as strong this year. Though, with a goalkeeper like Jack Butland, they have a man who could play in most Premier League sides. If Nathan Jones can get this Stoke side scoring goals, then they surely will have a successful 2019/20 season.
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