Al-Hamadi in: Mark Robins’ strongest Stoke City starting XI after the winter transfer window
Stoke City were active in the winter transfer window, backing new boss Mark Robins with a handful of new signings.
Stoke City have had a challenging season to date but the hope is that Mark Robins can lead the Potters up the table and away from the Championship relegation fight.
The fairly challenging start to life at the Bet365 Stadium for Robins shows the scale of a task ahead, but it is hoped he can lead a bright new chapter with the club. They sit 18th in the Championship table after the big win over Hull City last weekend.
With the winter transfer window now out the way though, Robins must work with what he’s got. Free transfer signings are possible, but unlikely at this point in the season.
Here, we take a look at the winter business done and how it could impact the strongest Stoke City starting lineup…
Stoke City’s winter deals
It was a shrewd month for the Potters, with only two new players coming through the doors before the window slammed shut on Monday night.
However, the big saga at Stoke City surrounded Tom Cannon. His fine form prompted a recall from Leicester City, who then opted to cash in and sell him to Sheffield United.
In turn, that made the striker position a priority for Robins and co. Nathan Lowe was recalled from Walsall and brought into the fold while Ipswich Town ace Ali Al-Hamadi joined on loan for the rest of the season.
The only other addition, despite the best efforts of the recruitment team, was Josh Wilson-Esbrand, coming in on a temporary basis from Manchester City.
Strongest XI
(4-2-3-1)
Johansson; Tchamadeu, Phillips, Rose, Stevens; Burger, Pearson; Manhoef, Bae, Koumas; Al-Hamadi
It’s safe to say that there will be strong competitions for places in the Stoke City side. At full strength, they’ve got decent depth and a starting XI good enough to push up the league.
However, the fairly quiet window means changes to the lineup will be limited.
The backline stays the same, as does the midfield thanks to a late rejected bid for Wouter Burger. Ben Pearson will fancy his chances of coming into the fray once fit again, though Tatsuki Seko and Lewis Baker are good competition for a spot in the middle.
There’s a good battle for places in the Potters side in attack too. Al-Hamadi netted his first against Hull City and will be favoured to start, though Nathan Lowe is also an option and could play in behind as an attacking midfielder too.
Andrew Moran, Andre Vidigal and the recalled Ryan Mmaee may also be considered for starts in their respective roles.
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