Geoff Cameroon is still struggling, while Jack Butland and Ryan Shawcross also suffered injuries. Who is going to play defense for the Potters?
If you haven’t heard by now. Jack Butland is injured. Again. Is it a surprise anymore? I don’t know.
The English keeper suffered a finger injury during international training prior to a clash against Germany. Reports say he is out for four to six weeks. Do not worry, as the defending Stoke City Player of the Year Lee Grant is ready to step up again and make everyone forget about Butland.
Related Story: Stoke City: Jack Butland’s injury crisis is worrisome
Geoff Cameron is yet to be fit for Monday’s battle against Huddersfield. The American defender missed last two games with a concussion he suffered during training. He has not had a meaningful practice session, and you can’t fault the coaching staff for taking a cautionary approach. Head injuries are becoming a talk around the sports world, and lasting possible effects would not worth any kind of risk. The team will monitor him for next two days.
Even if Cameron makes significant strides in his recovery, it is more than likely that he won’t feature in the first team right away. The American will undoubtedly reclaim his position in the three-back. For now, coaching staff won’t rush him back to action from head trauma. Mark Hughes will most likely feature Kevin Wimmer on the left side of the backline once again.
There was a bit of a scare when Ryan Shawcross did not practice over a couple of days. However, Mark Bowen insisted that the captain was simply receiving some rest to keep him in best shape prior to Monday’s game. While he did receive some treatment in his back, the assistant coach told the press that it was nothing to worry about.
His long list of injuries throughout the career doesn’t help ease the worry of the supporters. Despite the rumblings, expect Shawcross to be in the heart of Stoke’s defense once again come Monday.
Next: Stoke City: Jack Butland’s injury crisis is worrisome
Lastly, Stephen Ireland will still return sometime this season. The Irishman suffered a horrendous injury during training that kept him out for well over a year. However, a new treatment in Qatar and the faith given by Mark Hughes will eventually land another game for Ireland in the future.