Stoke City had hoped that their Stokealona revolution would be up and running this season. Mark Hughes had all the machinations set-up and after a couple of seasons of overhaul and subsequent embedding period, it was hoped that the Potters will finally be having a breakthrough season with regard to their playing style and tactical set-up.
For a long time now, they have been stereotyped as a physical team with a lack of emphasis on a creative build up play and a constructive game plan. Tony Pulis was gotten rid of and former Barcelona player and Manchester City manager Mark Hughes was brought on board to see an upheaval of the archaic identity and forge a new identity with which the club would move forward. He proceeded to sign players who would be better equipped to deal with the new instructions and got rid of a number of players.
But after an impressive last season, where they finished 9th, they haven’t been able to kick on this season. They started off on a disastrous note and within no time found themselves at the bottom of the heap but a string of wins in the middle saw them solidify their place in the table to an extent. But a major part of the repair work is still needed and Stoke seems to be back to square one once again.
And with the signing of Bony not working out as expected, according to reports they have revived their interest in West Bromwich Albion striker Saido Berahino.
While West Brom refused to let him leave when his value was at an all-time high, they are attempting to save some face while turning down reasonable bids for the striker and trying to get as much as they can from the sale. The 23-year old had an underwhelming last season where he scored a meagre 4 goals but has displayed timely glimpses of his ability which has ensured healthy competition for his signature.
His career at the Hawthorns came to standstill ever since the lust of Tottenham Hotspur got into his head and in trying to engineer moves, he fell out with the equally stubborn club.
He can also be utilised on the wings or behind a striker. The fans are understandably a bit sceptical with his disciplinary history but it is expected that under Hughes he can rediscover his early career form and grow into a better and a more lethal striker.
