Mark Robins spots positive signs at Stoke City training ahead of the midweek Bristol City trip!
Signs of Progress at Stoke City
Mark Robins is starting to see improvements in Stoke City’s chance creation after weeks of focused training. With new coaches James Rowberry and Paul Nevin on board and Ryan Shawcross stepping into a first-team role, Robins has prioritized improving the team’s scoring record to climb the Championship table.
The team has been working on making better use of possession, and Robins has seen encouraging signs both in training at Clayton Wood and in recent matches against Hull and Cardiff. “The significant improvement I’ve seen is in possession,” he noted ahead of the midweek trip to Bristol City.
Better Ball Play and Increased Chances
“There’s a lot more willingness to get on the ball and pass it,” Robins explained. Early on, the team was strong out of possession but struggled to hold onto the ball, which forced constant defensive work. Now, they’re retaining possession and creating more chances.
Robins was pleased with the three goals scored last Saturday, especially the quality of the opportunities. “The types of goals we got were pleasing, and there were other chances we could have taken.”
Injury Returns on the Horizon
Stoke were missing several key players against Cardiff, including Andrew Moran, Ben Wilmot, Lynden Gooch, Sam Gallagher, and Million Manhoef. Robins is hopeful for a squad boost soon, as injured players are starting to return.
“The bigger the squad, the better,” he said. “Having players back raises competition for places, which takes everything up a notch. I’m hopeful they’ll be reintroduced from now.”
Bristol City Challenge Ahead
Stoke faces a tough challenge in Bristol City, who had gone unbeaten in seven league games before a recent loss to Swansea. Robins is familiar with their playstyle after facing them twice with Coventry earlier this season.
“They’re a good young team and a pressing side. They’ve changed shape throughout the season but keep a box in midfield and have solid options up front with Nakhi Wells or Sinclair Armstrong.”
Acknowledging the difficulty of playing at Ashton Gate, Robins remains hopeful: “They’re a tough team, but hopefully we can come out with a really good performance and positive result.”
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