Stoke City are yet to get off the mark in the Championship as they have succumbed to two defeats in a row. Nathan Jones’ side will now host Derby County in the third league game of the season. The Potters should take some confidence from their midweek win against Wigan Athletic in the Carabao Cup tie.
Jones was appointed as the manager in January, and a lot will be expected out of him this season. However, the club’s home form is not the best as they have drawn five of their last six home games in the Championship. Stoke City were expected to fight for playoff spots last season, but they missed that mark by 19 points. A massive improvement is necessary, and they need to start racking up points after two defeats in a row.
Team News: Star defender Ryan Shawcross is out for the long term after suffering an injury during the pre-season.
Formation (4-3-1-2)
The Stoke manager is likely to deploy a 4-3-1-2 formation, which is very similar to the 4-4-2 diamond. However, he might change things up looking at Derby’s team. Jones played a 3-4-3 formation against Wigan which gave him his first win of the season so it remains to be seen what kind of formation he would go in with here. Traditionally, the Welsh boss is known to prefer the 4-3-1-2.
Stoke City predicted lineup Vs Derby County
Defence
Jack Butland is a nailed-on starter in goal for the Potters. 23-year-old Scottish defender Liam Lindsay is expected to start in the heart of the defence. January signing Danny Batth should be his centre back partner. The experienced Stephen Ward should keep his place on the left side of the defence. He will look to support the team in attack when presented with an opportunity. However, he will have the job of keeping Jozefzoon quiet as well. Summer signing Tommy Smith is going to start in a right-back role to complete the back four.
Midfield
Ryan Woods will start as a defensive midfielder. Former Liverpool player Joe Allen will partner him in the central area on the right. Sam Clucas will complete the midfield base of three.
Thomas Ince will be the chief orchestrator in the attack, and he will be deployed as an attacking midfielder. A lot will rest on his shoulders in the attacking half.
Attack
Sam Vokes wasn’t involved against Charlton, but we think that his experience and hold up play will come in handy. He should start up front alongside Scott Hogan to complete the front two.
