Mike Pejic

Stoke City Unveils Game-Changing Investment: Players Reveal Behind-the-Scenes Insights on Life at the Club

16/11/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City have had a pivotal week, marked by reflections on the club’s past, present developments, and aspirations for the future. Despite the international break, the club has been busy, with players traveling, insights from former legends like Tony Pulis, and significant updates on Stoke’s financial and operational strategies.

The team faces challenges as Wouter Burger will miss the next Championship game against QPR due to suspension, with other key players like Ben Gibson and Andrew Moran walking a disciplinary tightrope. Meanwhile, Stoke continues to adapt under head coach Narcis Pelach, who has emphasized nutrition, video analysis, and double training sessions to improve performance. His leadership, alongside Sporting Director Jon Walters’ restructuring efforts, aims to break the club’s cycle of mid-table finishes.

Off the field, Stoke has announced plans for a state-of-the-art £30 million training facility, signaling their commitment to returning to the Premier League. This facility will rival some of the best in English football, supporting both senior and academy teams. Additionally, Stoke City Women are in remarkable form, riding an eight-game winning streak as they prepare for a critical match against Nottingham Forest.

In other news, club legend Mike Pejic has been crowned national over-70s taekwondo champion, and former players Asmir Begovic and Robert Huth have shared fond memories of their time under Tony Pulis. On the financial side, analysis by Kieran Maguire highlights the frustrations of fans, pointing to the club’s expenditure not aligning with performance since their relegation from the Premier League.

This blend of ambition, challenge, and nostalgia showcases a club striving to move forward on solid ground while honoring its rich history.

Stoke City, left-back lesson and the change Gareth Southgate must make for England vs Slovakia

29/06/2024 Raymond 0

Stoke City legend Mike Pejic is optimistic about Steven Schumacher’s recent transfer moves and extends a warm welcome to new signing Eric Bocat. Pejic is excited to see what Bocat will bring to the squad, particularly appreciating the presence of two natural left-sided players with Bocat and Enda Stevens. He emphasizes the importance of balance in any football system, whether it focuses on possession or counter-attacking.

Pejic also shares his thoughts on the England team for Euro 2024, noting their struggle to find a left-footed player for the left-back role during the tournament. He stresses the need for left-sided players to stretch teams and utilize the width of the field effectively. Reflecting on the tournament, Pejic was impressed with Georgia’s spirit, teamwork, and forward-thinking approach, highlighting their ability to work the ball out of tight areas with good support and execute swift counter-attacks.

Turning to England, Pejic envisions a lineup with Watkins up front, Saka and Foden on the flanks, Kane playing off the front, and Bellingham linking up with Kane. Rice would provide defensive stability, while Walker and Shaw support from the back. Pejic believes this balanced lineup can produce exciting and winning football, urging Gareth Southgate to trust these players against Slovakia in the last 16. He is confident that if England adheres to these principles, they can progress through the knockout stages and potentially win the tournament.