Blackburn Rovers

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 City Starlet Seeks Familiar Ground Ahead of Anticipated Return to Rovers

05/11/2024 Raymond 0

Ashley Phillips returns to Ewood Park this Wednesday, not as a Blackburn player but as a determined Stoke City defender. Starting his career at Blackburn, Phillips has come full circle, now seeking to showcase his growth and Stoke’s progress since his summer 2023 move to Spurs. His loan spell has had its challenges—adjusting to a new coach and bouncing back from a concussion—but he’s found comfort in being closer to home and in a squad that’s beginning to gel. Reflecting on Stoke’s recent 2-1 win over Derby, Phillips noted the “togetherness” and the steady improvements, signs that the team is on an upward path under coach Narcis Pelach. Confident and settled, Phillips is ready to make his mark once more on familiar turf.

Blow for QPR as Leeds United Contemplates Recall of In-Form Sunderland Striker Seen Back in Training

30/10/2024 Raymond 0

Last weekend, Watford faced a challenging situation regarding their penalty taker during the match against Blackburn Rovers. With their first-choice option, Tom Dele-Bashiru, unavailable due to injury, manager Tom Cleverley had to quickly adapt. After a tense moment leading up to the penalty, midfielder Edo Kayembe stepped up and scored the decisive goal, securing a 1-0 victory for the Hornets. Cleverley praised the leadership shown by Moussa, who took the initiative to consult him about who should take the penalty. Although Cleverley aimed to assign the responsibility to one of their most confident players, Kayembe ultimately delivered under pressure, showcasing his composure in a critical moment.

In other news, Sunderland is looking forward to the potential return of teenage striker Eliezer Mayenda, who may make his first appearance since September when they face QPR. After missing six league games due to injury, Mayenda’s presence in training this week suggests he is ready to rejoin the squad. His return could be a significant boost for Sunderland, especially after his promising start to the season, which included a standout performance where he scored twice in a 4-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday.

Stoke City Poised to Reap Rewards from Brighton’s Bold Transfer Gamble

24/10/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City’s pursuit of Andrew Moran was not a new development this summer. TeamTalk had previously reported that they were leading contenders to secure his loan for the 2023/24 season, despite competition from Blackburn Rovers. However, Blackburn seemed to gain the upper hand, and Moran ended up joining the Ewood Park club in the final week of the transfer window.

During his loan spell at Blackburn, Moran made a strong impression, particularly in the first four months, although his form did decline in the latter half of the season. As a result, it wasn’t surprising that Brighton were willing to allow him to go out on loan again this summer. Multiple Championship clubs showed interest in securing his services, but reports indicated that Stoke and recent rivals Bristol City were leading the chase for the midfielder.

In mid-August, Stoke successfully acquired Moran after he signed a new long-term contract with Brighton. The Potters must be pleased to have convinced the Seagulls that the bet365 Stadium was the ideal environment for him to continue his development. So far, it appears to be a wise decision, as the 21-year-old is settling in well in the Potteries and is likely on the verge of receiving a second senior international call-up soon.