Stoke City have ramped up their transfer activity over the past week or so. In the last few days, the Potters announced a deal for midfielder Ogehenekaro Peter Etebo, followed by a move for striker Benik Afobe, who has joined on loan from Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Potters had a season to forget in the 2017/18 Premier League campaign, as they got relegated to the second division for the first time since breaking into the top-flight ten years ago. Stoke finished the season in 19th place, as Paul Lambert could not arrest the downslide that had started under former manager Mark Hughes.
With their participation in the EFL Championship confirmed, Stoke acted fast to recruit a manager who knew the ropes of the division well. They went on to acquire the services of former Derby County boss Gary Rowett, as the Englishman had done some solid work during his time with the Rams and previously with Birmingham City.
The 44-year-old led Derby to a playoff spot finish but couldn’t take his team past Fulham during the promotion playoff semi-finals. Rowett’s record with Derby is quite impressive and his signings with Stoke over the past week go on to indicate that he is the right man for the job.
In Etebo, the Potters have signed a young midfielder with international experience and proven pedigree in Europe. The 22-year old Nigerian spent the second half of last season playing on loan in Spain with Las Palmas.
With his signing, Stoke are getting an energetic and versatile midfielder, who would add bite and a combative nature to their midfield.
A diligent worker in the middle of the park, Etebo is capable of playing various roles. However, he seems to thrive while playing as a box-to-box midfielder. Over the course of the last season, he also improved his passing skills and usage of the ball, while his all-around abilities make him an excellent addition to the Stoke squad.
Afobe, on the other hand, has what it takes to make a difference. The 25-year old netted six times in 16 games while on loan with Wolves in the second half of the previous season. Towards the end, he went on to play a key role in their promotion to the top-flight.
With over 100 appearances in the English second division already, the former Arsenal man is aware of the rigours and demands of the competition.
Given that Stoke solely had to rely on the misfiring Saido Berahino and the ageing Peter Crouch last season, the addition of Afobe is a major coup for the Potters.
With these two signings, Rowett is making all the right noises at his new club. If he continues this way, Stoke would go into the next season as strong contenders for promotion.
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