Stoke City appears to have strengthened their defense in recent matches, and one key selection decision proved beneficial for Narcis Pelach during their 0-0 draw with Swansea City.
Stoke City has struggled with defensive stability in recent times, particularly under former manager Steven Schumacher, who witnessed his team lose by three or more goals on four occasions during his tenure. Consequently, Narcis Pelach has worked diligently to tighten the defense, and their recent goalless draw against Swansea City demonstrates that his efforts are starting to pay off.
Pelach’s adjustments seem to have made a difference, especially as the Potters managed to secure their first clean sheet in six matches against Swansea. Ben Wilmot, who played as the right-back, has been a key figure in this turnaround, having previously helped the team limit Portsmouth to just one goal while they scored six.
Wilmot has been preferred over Junior Tchamadeu in recent matches and has stepped up impressively, making a strong case for himself as the first-choice right-back moving forward. Familiar with the position, Wilmot has been with Stoke for over three years, playing 16 of his 120 matches at right-back. His solid performances in recent games have pleased Potters fans.
Against Portsmouth, Wilmot faced off against tricky left-winger Josh Murphy and made an immediate impact, hitting the crossbar with a long-range shot in the first minute. He won 75% of his ground duels, made five recoveries, and completed six passes into the final third.
In the match against Swansea, Wilmot continued to impress, playing alongside Michael Rose and behind Lewis Koumas. He kept the hosts’ left-wing threat, Eom Ji-sung, relatively quiet while helping the team secure a clean sheet.
Ben Wilmot’s Stats vs. Swansea City:
– **Minutes:** 98
– **Goals conceded:** 0
– **Tackles won:** 2/2
– **Aerial duels won:** 3/4
– **Passes into final third:** 13
– **Clearances:** 5
– **Fotmob rating:** 7.4
Wilmot expressed his enjoyment of the position, noting that Pelach has been supportive and detailed in his coaching. He has been analyzing clips to learn the role better, stating, “If the manager wants me to play there, I’ll do it and give my best.”
Historically, right-back has been a stable position for Stoke, especially with the contributions of loanee Ki-Jana Hoever. However, they entered this season without a new signing for that role. Tchamadeu had been the primary choice at right-back, supported by Lynden Gooch, who is currently injured. The 20-year-old Tchamadeu started the season strong but struggled with consistency, as demonstrated by recent heavy losses.
Wilmot’s recent performances have now provided an alternative to Tchamadeu, making him the favored option for the upcoming matches as Stoke looks to build on their defensive improvements.
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