Ben Wilmot

Stoke City Hit with Major Setback: Key Midfielder Out, Trio One Step from Suspension

10/11/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City will be without Wouter Burger for their upcoming match against Queens Park Rangers after the midfielder picked up his fifth yellow card of the season. Burger was cautioned for dissent following a controversial decision in the match against Millwall, where referee Will Finnie failed to award Stoke a penalty for a foul on Burger by Jake Cooper. Although Finnie later apologized for the error, the yellow card stands, leaving Burger suspended for the November 23 fixture. Additionally, three other Stoke players—Ben Gibson, Ben Wilmot, and Andrew Moran—are walking a yellow card tightrope, with each one needing to avoid another booking before December 7 to prevent a suspension.

Stoke City Hero’s Post-Match Moment Speaks Volumes

07/11/2024 Raymond 0

**Viktor Johansson Inspires Stoke City’s 2-0 Win Over Blackburn**

Stoke City secured a crucial 2-0 victory at Blackburn Rovers, marking their first away win under head coach Narcis Pelach. Goals from Million Manhoef and Tom Cannon gave the Potters all three points, but it was goalkeeper Viktor Johansson who truly stole the show. The Swedish keeper was in outstanding form, making a series of vital saves that kept Stoke in control. His performance wasn’t just about what he did on the pitch, though. After the final whistle, Johansson’s joyous celebration with the away fans highlighted the bond he’s forming with supporters. His infectious energy and brilliant shot-stopping have made him a fan favourite, and his impact on the team cannot be overstated.

The victory also highlighted Stoke’s growing attacking threat. Cannon continued his fine form with another goal, while Lewis Koumas added dynamism to the attack after being reintroduced to the starting lineup. Despite being without Ben Wilmot due to illness, the Potters looked solid all over the pitch and are beginning to show the signs of a more cohesive, well-rounded team under Pelach. With Johansson in such fine form and key players returning to fitness, Stoke look set to build on this momentum.

Stoke chose Ben Gibson over Jake Clarke-Salter

12/07/2024 Raymond 0

The Telegraph’s Midlands football reporter John Percy highlighted in May that Stoke had identified Jake Clarke-Salter as their top target for the summer transfer window, especially with Ben Wilmot and Michael Rose as their only senior centre-back options under contract at the time. Percy indicated that Clarke-Salter’s price tag was expected to range between £5-7 million, with interest also coming from several Premier League clubs.

QPR concern not over despite £1m-a-year Stoke City deal: View

13/06/2024 Raymond 0

With two years remaining on his contract, securing him with QPR until the end of the 2025/26 season, it’s suggested that the club would demand a fee of £5-7 million for Jake Clarke-Salter’s services this summer. Despite Stoke City’s recent acquisition of center-back Ben Gibson, QPR should still be concerned about the Potters’ interest in Clarke-Salter.

Given the rigors of a full season, it would be a significant challenge for any club to manage with just three center-backs. Stoke often plays with two center-backs, leaving them with only one player to cover both positions. Considering the likelihood of injuries and suspensions throughout the season, this situation would put them at a high risk of selection issues. Hence, it would be prudent for the club to bring in another central defender to alleviate the pressure on their current options, providing more flexibility for rotation and reducing the risk of unwanted absences.

Stoke City starting XI for next season as Steven Schumacher gets early business done

09/06/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City has bid farewell to five key players from their starting lineup, determined to promptly fill these gaps. Goalkeeper Daniel Iversen, right-back Ki-Jana Hoever, center-half Luke McNally, and attacking midfielder Luke Cundle have all returned to their parent clubs after their loan spells, while striker Tyrese Campbell departs at the end of his contract.

Junior Tchamadeu is set to replace Hoever, with Lynden Gooch providing competition. Seventeen-year-old Sol Sidibe, recently called up to England’s under-18 team, is expected to be a major part of the first team squad during pre-season, potentially sharing minutes with midfielders Jordan Thompson, Wouter Burger, Josh Laurent, Ben Pearson, and Lewis Baker. Viktor Johansson has joined as the new number one goalkeeper from Rotherham United.

In defense, Ben Gibson joins Michael Rose and Ben Wilmot. Left-back Enda Stevens has extended his contract, but given his injury history, additional cover may be sought. The center-forward position remains a top priority, with Ryan Mmaee and Niall Ennis eager to prove themselves, and youngsters Emre Tezgel and Nathan Lowe aiming to catch the coach’s attention.

The transfer window remains open, and Stoke City expects further player movements, both in and out, marking a proactive shift from the previous year’s unsettled pre-season.