Stoke City’s abysmal run of form this season came to a head on Saturday afternoon, as the Potters were knocked out of the FA Cup by League Two Coventry City.
Manager Mark Hughes had been fighting for his future before the game, and the shock defeat proved to be the final nail in his coffin, as the former Manchester City boss was relieved of his duties just hours later. Stoke fans here in The Transfer Tavern were sad to see their manager of four-and-a-half years depart, but will hope that his replacement will begin to bring the club back to form.
A number of potential candidates for the role have emerged, but today The Mirror have reported that Hughes’ former Manchester United and Wales teammate Ryan Giggs has emerged as a serious candidate, with the Welsh national side looking set to miss out on the former United caretaker boss having identified him as a potential replacement for Chris Coleman. Giggs has been looking to get back into management having been snubbed for the Old Trafford role on a permanent basis, and Stoke chairman Peter Coates could be ready to hand the Welshman his first full-time role in management.
Landlord’s Verdict: Giggs is an extremely experienced football man with all the required coaching badges to manage at this level, but many will argue he lacks the experience required to take up a Premier League role as his first foray into management.
Stoke are embroiled in a relegation battle, something Giggs has had the fortune of never having to experience during his time with United, and some Stoke fans may argue that the 44-year-old is not the right man for the job.
However what Giggs does possess is an abundance of knowledge surrounding this league having been a part of it since its inauguration in 1992, and a gamble on the promising young boss could certainly pay off for the Potters.
Stoke fans, would you like to see your side gamble on Giggs? Let us know!
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