Stoke City

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We recently asked you what you have made of Jonathan Walters' performance as Stoke City's Sporting Director since he was appointed in April.

Here are some of the responses we received:

Paul: Jon Walters is a breath of fresh air to my club. As a supporter for over fifty years, I can certainly say I have lived through the highs and lows, mostly lows. The DNA in this area, in history, was coal mines and pot banks with hard-working men/women who looked forward every Saturday to Stoke City. Jon knows this and understands this.

Robin: It was clear that the culture in the dressing room from the latter stages of the Hughes era was not the passionate Stoke City we all know. Schuey's 'non-negotiables' was the shoots of the new era. There is no better person than SJW to support, enhance and generate the drive and passion for success.

Gary: SJW knows that all Stoke fans ask is that players give 100% on the pitch. SJW, Shawcross, Whelan and Huth did just that.

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Stoke-On-Trent Live reporter Pete Smith believes that Stoke City have a stronger core squad to work with heading into pre-season compared to last summer.

Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke, he said that the Potters need to focus on signing new players in the positions that most need addressing:

"They'll have a conservatively stronger platform to build on this summer than they did last summer. Last season was all about the opportunity to build a squad and they got some things right. We've spoken about Wouter Burger, Bae Junho and Million Manhoef.

"They got some things wrong. They've been unbalanced in a few areas. They haven't found a goalscorer and they've obviously been at the wrong end of the league table.

"This time around, they've got a much stronger core to start from and they can concentrate more on the positions that they really need to get right.

"Hopefully they know exactly what they need and they can go out and get it, but it's talking about opportunity rather than reflecting on a good season unfortunately."

Who would you like the club to sign during the upcoming transfer window?

Send us your comments here.

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The Potters have announced that Enda Stevens has signed a new one-year contract, keeping him at the club for the 2024/25 season.

Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke, former defender Ian Cranson was asked whether it was the right decision to tie the left-back down to a fresh deal:

"Without a shadow of a doubt.

"I thought the balance looked a lot better when he was there in the games that he played. You could see they looked more comfortable, even people ahead of him, knowing that they had a proper left-back rather than a fill-in.

"Obviously it's good. The frustrating thing was when he got injured. When he's out for a few games, we've struggled a little bit.

"Whether or not they look to reinforce that position as one of their signings in the summer because (Jordan) Thompson is staying. It's whether they are going to use Thompson as another fill-in.

"You've got to keep your fingers crossed because Stevens is getting to that age where he's more susceptible to pick up a couple of injuries.

"Hopefully he'll stay injury free and he'll be the regular, but that's something they maybe need to think about."

How do you feel about Stevens staying at the Bet365 Stadium?

Send us your comments here.

Former Stoke City defender Denis Smith recently said that the club should aim to secure a place in the Championship top six next season.

We then asked you where you think the Potters will finish at the end of the new campaign.

Here are some of the responses we received:

Steve: I respect Smithy so much and his mindset is that of a typical footballer, whether it’s professional or amateur. You expect to win every game. You walk onto the pitch buzzing. Sometimes you win, if you don’t, you’re gutted. It lasts until you play your next game which you expect to win! At the beginning of the season, you expect to be champions!

Paul: Relieved to have stayed in the Championship and buoyed by performances in the final few games. I suffered at the Leicester 5-0 thrashing and a team that seemed to lack commitment and conviction against a vastly more energetic opponent. Next season, we should be targeting at least 66 points and see what that gives us to build on.

Adrian: Denis is totally correct! We must push on every season, not only to finish higher than last season, but for the opportunity to get promoted. When the 90 minutes starts and right up to the final whistle, we have to play to win. Every win puts you above the rest. Promotion, or the chance of, at least has to be the aim.

John: Should be ambitious and have high targets. The club needs to have a change of mindset and believe in themselves. Be prepared to work harder than ever for a great reward.

Andrew: It would be brilliant for Stoke to make the Premiership next season. If not automatic then through the play-offs. More than good enough to do it.

Barry: A lot of rebuilding needs to be done. Need to be formidable at home and build on that. Probably mid-table finish.

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BBC Radio Stoke's Stoke City commentator Sohail Sahi believes that Jonathan Walters has made a positive impact at the club since being appointed Sporting Director.

Sahi says that the former forward has done a great job rekindling the connection between the players, staff and fanbase:

"It's a massive tick in the box of John Coates when he put him in interim charge and then he's hired him permanently. It's getting that Stoke DNA back at the club.

"We've seen the likes of Glenn Whelan coming to watch the games, I saw John O'Shea in the director's box, I've seen Phil Bardsley.

"You can sense some of the old Stoke players wanting to be around the club again and I've got a feeling that's to do with Jonathan Walters being the football director.

"I know he gets the club, he understands it, he's played in the shirt. He knows what it means to the supporters.

"I loved his chat not long ago when he talked about the future. He talked about getting back into the Premier League, getting into Europe. That really made me smile."

How would you assess Walters' performance in his role so far?

Let us know your thoughts here.

Stoke City are reportedly considering a move to sign Sheffield Wednesday attacking midfielder and forward Josh Windass in the summer transfer window.

Championship clubs West Bromwich Albion and Hull City, alongside newly-promoted Derby County, also hold an interest.

The Owls are in talks with the 30-year-old over a new contract, but with an agreement yet to be reached, his options are open ahead of next season. (The Star, external)

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Former Stoke City defender Denis Smith believes that the club should be looking to secure a place in the Championship play-offs next season.

The 1972 League Cup winner was asked by BBC Radio Stoke what he thinks is a realistic target to aim for in terms of league position:

"What you want to do is get promotion. Targets shouldn’t be lower than that. What’s the point of being in the league if you don’t want to get promotion?

"Realistically, I think we can get into the top half and then you’re hoping to challenge for that top six, but when you start the season, you want to be the team that wins the league. That’s why you’re there."

Where do you think the Potters will finish in 2024/25?

Send us your comments here.

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Stoke City physio Nick Meace has confirmed that he's left the club after spending four years at the Bet365 Stadium.

Meace first joined the team of backroom staff when Michael O'Neill was in charge, though the club will now be looking to find his replacement.

Announcing his exit on social media, Meace said:

"This year marks 10 years working in professional football and the past four years have been spent working at Stoke City Football Club, my time here has now come to an end.

"I’ve worked with some exceptional talents throughout my career at the highest level, from professional athletes representing their country, to leading medical professionals at the top of their careers. I’m thankful to everyone that’s been a part of my journey thus far.

"Today marks the start of a new chapter for myself. I’m excited to see what opportunities are ahead."

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Stoke City recently announced that Jaden Dixon has signed his first professional contract with the club, putting pen to paper on a three-year deal.

Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke, Academy Director Gareth Owen said that he was really pleased to have secured the future of the 17-year-old:

“Jaden’s had an outstanding season.

"To sit on the bench for the first team, start the majority of games for the U21’s, to be called up for England in the U17’s and then to finish it off with signing your first professional contract, I don’t think any of us anticipated how well it would go.

"This is down to his character, his willingness to learn and to be the best version of himself, coupled with the programme we’ve put in place for him.

"We’re absolutely delighted with his progress and he’s a testament to himself, his family and all the staff that have worked with him.

"Obviously, he’s still got lots to play for. Hopefully he’ll get called up for the Euro’s with England over the summer and then he comes back and has a good pre-season, builds on his success and has an equal second season as good as the first.”

How much potential has Dixon got to become a first team regular?

Let us know your thoughts here.

Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion are reportedly the two clubs in pole position to sign Queens Park teenager Aiden McGinlay.

The attacking winger is yet to make his senior debut for the Scottish Championship team, but he is classed as the best prospect in their academy.

Callum Davidson's side want to tie the 17-year-old down to a professional contract, but they are bracing themselves to receive offers from elsewhere.

Queens Park would only be able to ask for a small compensation fee for their youngster because he's been with them for less than a year.

Celtic, Ipswich Town and Norwich City also hold an interest. (TEAMtalk, external)

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Stoke City have revealed that their fixtures for the 2024/25 Championship season will be released on Wednesday, 26 June at 09:00 GMT.

The Potters will kick off their new campaign on the weekend of 10/11 August, where they will be hoping to pick up where they left off at the end of last term.

The Bet365 Stadium will also see home fans located behind both goals and either side of the tunnel for the first time thanks to the new plans submitted by the club's Chief Operating Officer Simon King.

We recently asked you what Stoke City head coach Steven Schumacher and Sporting Director Jonathan Walters need to get right over the summer in order for the club to be more successful next season.

Here are some of the responses we received:

Jeff: Took a while for Steven to convince me that he had a coherent plan, but everything came good in the end. The loss of Iversen, Campbell and Cundle will be significant, and as a minimum, another quality striker and quality goalkeeper are essential. Junior and Million both look good, midfield ok. Defence needs a keeper as good as Iversen has been.

Anthony: Super Jonny Walters is a leader, as was Glenn Whelan who played with him. The current squad needs two or three genuine leaders in the dressing room to drive standards amongst the playing squad. He also needs to protect his head coach. Michael O'Neill and Alex Neil weren't protected when fans turned on them. Stability required.

Steve: It’s all about the blend. We need strong, fearsome defenders. Clever, creative midfielders (with a little bite), and fast, ruthless forwards with one thing on their mind. Most of all, and this is where Jon will excel, we need a one-for-all, all-for-one togetherness. Come on Jon, get them to run through walls!

David: Jonny Walters has forgotten more about football than I could ever learn, but I do expect to see him and Schumacher collaborate on a plan and go in with consistency, rather than last summer's aimless free-for-all.

Barney: We need a strong defence and someone to find the back of the net. Walters knows what true grafters as a team can achieve, and that's the sort of players we need. Team players.

Tony: Get a really good goalkeeper and strengthen the defence, those are the main tasks at hand. Next up, a good defensive midfielder and a goalscorer.

Andrew: Stoke need an extra forward and to play two up front. Recruit some pace to strengthen what we already have.

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Stoke City striker Emre Tezgel is currently out on loan at MK Dons, where his three goals and the same number of assists since joining have helped the club reach the League Two play-off semi-finals.

Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke, the 18-year-old has revealed how he's finding life away from the Bet365 Stadium:

"It's been great. Obviously being away from Stoke for the first time, it's a new experience, but I've enjoyed it. I was just looking forward to playing and wanted to show everyone what I can do.

"Walking into a new changing room is always nerve-racking, but the lads have been excellent. They've all welcomed me really nicely. I wouldn't be able to name one person in particular. All of them have made me feel at home."

When asked what he's learnt football wise while on the road, Tezgel added:

"The physical side of the game. The speed of the game. Being able to handle the ball under pressure. That's the aspects I've found different from U21's level."

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Stoke City are preparing to head into their first transfer window with Jonathan Walters as Sporting Director, working alongside head coach Steven Schumacher.

The Potters are looking to strengthen in a number of different areas, and it's important that their recruitment is spot on should they want to be more successful next season.

What do you think Walters has to get right over the summer?

What profile of player would you like the club to sign?

Is there anyone in particular you want them to target?

Get involved and let us know your thoughts using the online form here.

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Stoke City defender Jaden Dixon has signed his first professional contract with the club.

The Potters centre-back has put pen to paper on a three-year deal to mark his 17th birthday.

The England youth international reportedly had interest, external from two clubs in the Premier League, but he's decided to stay at the Bet365 Stadium.

Speaking about his achievement, Dixon told the club website:

“It’s an amazing feeling to have agreed a professional contract at Stoke City.

“I have enjoyed my time here so far and I’m continuing to progress. I feel loved and wanted here and I’ve been shown a clear pathway.

“Teammates and staff have shown how much they believe in me and that has given me the confidence to perform and improve this season, as well as giving me a real determination to continue progressing in the years to come.”

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Stoke City head coach Steven Schumacher says that he wants Million Manhoef to adjust to the physicality of Championship football ahead of next season.

The Potters winger scored four goals in his last three home games of the season, and Schumacher is hoping that he can build on that form over the summer:

“Million is getting stronger each game. He’s ended the season with loads of confidence.

"He needs to go away in the summer, rest and recover and then come back in a real good physical state because he needs to be able to produce that Saturday-Tuesday-Saturday-Tuesday.

"It’s relentless in this league, a lot more than he’s used to in the Dutch league. Hopefully he has a good off season and we can see the best of him next year.”

Stoke City are reportedly interested in a move to sign Queens Park Rangers defender Jake Clarke-Salter in the summer transfer window.

The Potters have made the centre-back a top target, although there are other clubs, including in the Premier League, also considering a swoop.

The Hoops have set a price tag of between £5-7m, with Steven Schumacher looking to strengthen in a number of areas ahead of next season. (John Percy, external)

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Stoke City head coach Steven Schumacher recently finished his first season at the club with three consecutive wins against Plymouth Argyle, Southampton and Bristol City.

Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke, Ben Rowley from 'The YYY-Files, external' claimed that the 40-year-old's time in charge has so far been a success:

"He has done a good job because if we'd have carried on the trajectory that we were before he came in, we would have gone down, so he's fulfilled his primary objective.

"It took a bit of time for him to realise what he needed to do. I don't know how quickly he's going to go back to that ideal (formation) as he goes into the new season and how wedded he is to that. Nathan Jones was well wedded to his formations, that cost him in the end.

"If he's able to adapt here, we might sign two inverted full-backs, midfielders that run themselves into the ground and centre-backs that are willing to stand on the ball for 15 seconds before passing it out calmly. That's just not been very Stoke and I don't know how the crowd are going to react to that.

"His biggest accolade for me, and this is something that's not been done since Mark Hughes has been here, he's actually improved players. We've seen players grow over the course of the last dozen or so games.

"That's what I'm looking forward to next season. Seeing if he can take the squad that he has and helping them develop which is something that we've really lacked over the years."

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Stoke City striker Nathan Lowe has been named Community Champion for 2023/24.

The Potters centre-forward has spent the most time contributing to off-field projects this season, including visiting fans at schools, attending recreational football activities and celebration events.

Congratulating the 18-year-old on his award, Head of Community, Adrian Hurst, told the club website:

“Our players are very passionate about giving back to the local community and many of them throughout this season have experienced first-hand the benefits of the Community Trust's work.

“Player visibility is an important aspect of being a community conscious club and there is an understanding throughout our squad that it is positive to put something back by engaging positively in such appearances.

“Our 2023/24 Community Champion, Nathan Lowe, has shown this in abundance. Nathan has been more than happy to attend any player appearance and to go the extra mile for the supporters and young people he has met throughout the season.”

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Former Stoke City striker Mark Stein has praised Bae Junho for his performance in the 4-0 win over Bristol City last weekend.

Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke, the veteran named the 20-year-old as his standout player for the final game of the season:

"He looks really confident in all the stuff he does. Getting Player of the Year is another bonus, isn't it? He played with a freedom that was really good to see."

How have you rated Junho's first campaign at the club?

Let us know your thoughts here.

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Stoke City striker Niall Ennis has been ruled out of Saturday's game vs Bristol City after picking up a knee injury in the 1-0 win at Southampton.

Sead Haksabanovic also remains on the sidelines with a groin problem which saw him miss last weekend's match at the St. Mary's Stadium.

However, Mehdi Leris is back from illness and Lynden Gooch could return to the bench after training with the group over the last few days.

Both Ryan Mmaee and Ben Pearson are still nursing hamstring injuries and therefore won't make the squad for the final game of the season.