Stoke City eagerly awaits approval for Million Manhoef’s work permit, aiming to feature the deadline day signing in their lineup for the upcoming home clash against Leicester. Niall Ennis, recently acquired from Blackburn Rovers, is ready to contribute on Saturday, while Manhoef, the winger from Vitesse Arnhem, awaits official confirmation for his immediate inclusion.
Junior Tchamadeu, back from the African Cup of Nations, is hindered by a stomach bug, hindering his return to training at Clayton Wood. Josh Laurent’s ankle isn’t fully recovered, ruling him out of contention. Enda Stevens, overcoming a calf problem, faces a knock sidelining him for weeks.
With loan keeper Daniel Iversen ineligible against his parent club, Jack Bonham returns, leaving a choice between Frank Fielding, newcomer Scott Morris, or Blondy Nna Noukeu as the match day deputy. Steven Schumacher confronts selection challenges in defense, midfield, and attack as he seeks redemption from last Saturday’s defeat at Sunderland.