Stoke City prepare to take on top of the table Leeds United at Elland Road on Thursday, a tricky fixture for the Potters considering the position of the two clubs. However, Stoke go into this one on the back of a 4-0 victory over fellow strugglers Barnsley. A result that is sure to give the Reds a massive boost in both confidence and belief.
Sam Vokes and Tyrese Campbell were the two real danger men in the game, the two forwards being a constant menace to the backline. Both strikers managed to score last time out, Vokes scoring one off a corner and Campbell bagging a brace from playing at the right-wing. Throughout the game, the two combined as Vokes’ hold up play worked a treat with Campbell running up alongside for support.
Against such an opponent as Leeds United, this tactic looks the way to go for Stoke. With it being likely that Leeds will have most of the possession, Stoke will need to be ruthless and aggressive when given the chance to attack. Vokes’ ability to hold the ball will allow the likes of Campbell with his pace to counter quickly, as he runs alongside Vokes on the wing. Campbell’s speed will be Stoke’s main attacking outlet as he feeds off of the knockdowns supplied to him by Vokes.
Vokes will also be a considerable threat off any set pieces Stoke maintain in the game while Campbell will be sniffing around the box looking to pounce off any mistakes, acting as a poacher. Both strikers scored from corners last week, and we can be assured that Stoke City will look to recreate that feat.
It’s unlikely that either of these two will get dropped after their performances against Barnsley. However, considering the enormity of the game on Sunday against Birmingham, O’Neill might save one of the two as the matches are coming thick and fast. O’Neill could also potentially tweak the system when playing top of the table Leeds, as he might opt for a different approach. It’ll be another big test for Stoke, but certainly, an encounter the players will relish.
