Stoke City has entered 2025 with a promising defensive display, yet their inability to find the back of the net continues to be a concern. After a goalless draw against Plymouth Argyle and another 0-0 draw with Burnley on New Year’s Day, the team has shown resilience but lacks the offensive sharpness to secure victories.
Despite these struggles, Stoke City fans have reasons for optimism. The team's defensive strength is evident, but converting opportunities into goals remains the next crucial step to climb higher in the league standings and avoid the relegation zone.
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The Return of Lewis Baker: A Key Addition
A significant boost for Stoke City comes with the return of Lewis Baker, who has rejoined the squad after a loan spell with Blackburn Rovers. During his time at Blackburn, Baker appeared in 13 matches, scoring one goal in 595 minutes. Though his stint there wasn’t as impactful as hoped, his return to Stoke City offers a fresh opportunity to re-establish himself.
Baker's back 🤝
— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) January 8, 2025
Midfielder returns ahead of FA Cup clash at Sunderland.
Baker has been a valuable player for Stoke City since joining in the 2021-22 season, known for his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. Under the guidance of manager Mark Robins, Baker is set to be a key figure in the upcoming FA Cup clash against Sunderland on January 11, where the team will aim to advance to the next round.
Baker's Past Success and Future Prospects
Baker's history with Stoke City highlights his importance to the team. In the 2023-24 season, he played 22 matches, scoring three goals and accumulating over 1,200 minutes on the pitch. His debut season in 2021-22 was particularly impressive, with eight goals and two assists in 21 appearances, totaling 1,800 minutes.
As Stoke City looks to improve its performance in 2025, Baker’s return is seen as a pivotal factor. His presence in midfield could provide the creativity and finishing touch that the team has been missing. Fans and management alike are hopeful that Baker can replicate his earlier success and help Stoke City climb the Championship table while making a deep run in the FA Cup.