Stoke City: Jese could be on the move
By Kee Min
The Spaniard failed to hold down a starting spot for Stoke and is reportedly unhappy. Real Betis could offer him an out.
Jese walked into the bet365 Stadium for the first time in just a second week of Premier League with Xherdan Shaqiri and Jack Butland. Forty-seven minutes later, he was celebrating with Saido Berahino on their way to sinking the star-studded Arsenal squad.
Ever since then, the Spaniard failed to score for the Potters.
It is no secret that Jese failed to make an impact. His last start came in October against Bournemouth. He has since lost his starting spot to returning Ramadan Sobhi. It was reported that he is not happy at Stoke.
However, there might be a light at the end of the tunnel. Real Betis is apparently keen on bringing in the Spaniard in as a reinforcement. If there is a serious interest, Stoke would be wise to let him go. There is no point in paying Paris Saint-German for Jese’s service if he is not, well, serviceable. Perhaps it is time Hughes gives Saido Berahino some chances. Maybe move Mame Biram Diouf higher up on the pitch. Ibrahim Afellay is also a plausible option. Mark Hughes also said that they are looking to bring in a striker in January as well.
His status in the team took another hit as Jese was recently punished for his actions against Swansea. The former Real Madrid man left the bench early in frustration after Hughes made his final substitutions. While the specification of the punishment is unknown, it seems to be patched up for now.
It is not as if the club and the supporters have been patient with him. Jese is making regular visits back home to be with his prematurely born son, Nyan, who is fighting for his life. Perhaps it is the stress of such grave situation, but a professional should be professional. The move to Betis would put him much closer to his son as well.
Next: Stoke City: Stoke must bring in a striker in January
In the end, the club must do what is best for themselves. The Jese situation is a mess for everyone, and perhaps they must move on and focus on climbing the table with a dedicated group of players.