Month: August 2024

Cannon in: These 4 things happening at Stoke City will have supporters in August dreamland

04/08/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City have already signed Ben Gibson as a center-back this summer but are looking to add another defender following Michael Rose’s injury, which is expected to sideline him for up to ten weeks. Currently, Stoke’s senior center-back options include Gibson, Rose, and Ben Wilmot, with promising youngsters Jaden Dixon and Freddie Anderson also in the mix. However, these young players are not expected to play regularly in the Championship.

Rose’s ankle injury during a friendly against Crewe Alexandra on July 23 has prompted head coach Steven Schumacher to prioritize signing a new center-back before the transfer window closes on August 30. While The Telegraph’s John Percy suggested that Leicester City center-back Harry Souttar could return to the bet365 Stadium on loan, this seems unlikely, leading Stoke to consider other targets such as Scott McKenna from Nottingham Forest or Michal Helik from Huddersfield Town.

Stoke fans will appreciate the addition of defensive reinforcements, given the current weaknesses compared to previous seasons. Gibson is a solid acquisition but is over 30 and has a history of injuries, while Wilmot has struggled to regain his form after consecutive back and knee injuries last year. Therefore, a new defender would be a welcome addition for the Potters.

Sad news as former Sheffield Wednesday man is forced to retire at just 31

04/08/2024 Raymond 0

Caolan Lavery, a former striker for Sheffield Wednesday, has announced his retirement from football at the age of 31. Lavery joined the Owls’ academy in 2012 and first experienced regular first-team action during the 2013/14 season, scoring four goals in 18 Championship games. Despite spending loan periods at several clubs, he struggled to firmly establish himself at Hillsborough. In 2016, he made a notable move to Sheffield United after declining a new contract with Wednesday. Recently, following medical advice due to a knee injury sustained in February 2023, Lavery decided to retire. He expressed gratitude on social media, acknowledging the support he received throughout his career. Lavery made 39 appearances for Sheffield Wednesday, scoring six goals, including a memorable brace in a 6-0 victory over Leeds United in 2014.