Stoke City have endured a fairly reasonable campaign so far, without too much to celebrate or to be concerned about.
Sat in the top-half, but a way off the European spots, there isn’t too much for the Potters to compete for.
An early FA Cup exit was a huge blow to the regulars in the Transfer Tavern and they’re hoping Mark Hughes will improve the squad this month, giving any new faces the chance to settle into the Premier League with half a season before competing for better fortune next term.
For some faces to come in, it naturally means that some may have to go out and the fans in the Transfer Tavern have been discussing who should leave and who should remain. In the end, they’ve come up with three names they believe should be shifted on.
Our landlord has had a look through their list and agrees with the sentiment, saying that these three players could all benefit from an exit.
Bojan Krkic
Disillusioned in Staffordshire due to a lack of opportunities, Borjan Krkic is keen on a move in January and Middlesbrough, amongst others, are believed to be interested in his signature. Stoke don’t need the Spaniard and a sale would work well.
Demanding a fair price for Bojan, but still earning a decent amount, would be a great bit of business on Stoke’s part. For Bojan, the move would be a bit of a risk but that’s something for the player to deal with and not something Stoke need to be worried about.
Ibrahim Afellay
The 30-year-old has struggled with injury problems this season and, only just returning, there could be some issues for the Dutchman to push into the first-team. With just five appearances this season, playing just 121 minutes in the Premier League, a move may be beneficial.
The journeyman, formerly of Barcelona and PSV Eindhoven, has never quite settled in his career and he’s had similar problems in Stoke. Mark Hughes side don’t necessarily need him, so a sale would be a good shout.
Ramadan Sobhi
Soon to turn 20, the Egyptian youngster arrived to quite a fanfare last summer but is clearly seen by Mark Hughes as one for the future. So far, he’s made seven Premier League appearances but that only accumulates to 195 minutes.
A loan move for Sobhi would be a decent option in the second-half of the season, allowing him to continue his development and enjoy first-team football. With additional experience in English football, he could thrive.
