Stoke City is going through one of its most challenging moments in the EFL Championship, struggling to find consistency and avoid slipping into the relegation zone. Following their disappointing goalless draw against Oxford United, the team is now sitting in 20th place in the table.
With 29 games played, they have managed just six wins, 11 draws, and 12 losses, collecting 29 points. This leaves them precariously close to Derby County, currently 22nd, with 27 points, just two behind Stoke.
READ MORE: Stoke City 0-0 Oxford United: The Potters' inconsistency continues in the EFL Championship
A season on the brink for Mark Robins with Stoke City
The pressure is mounting for manager Mark Robbins, who has yet to secure a league win since taking charge. Although his tenure began with some promise, Stoke has recorded just one victory in his five matches at the helm—a 2-1 extra-time win against Sunderland in the FA Cup.
The remaining results include three draws and one defeat, reflecting the team’s ongoing struggles in finding consistency and converting opportunities into victories.
"If I look frustrated, it's because I am, but it will come."
— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) January 25, 2025
Post-match reaction from the gaffer 👇 pic.twitter.com/J8vaG4hJda
Stoke City’s next challenge comes in the form of a crucial league match against Hull City. Hull, who sit just above Stoke in the standings, presents an opportunity for Robins’ side to distance themselves from the relegation zone.
A crucial test lies ahead for Stoke City if they do not want to fall into relegation
Robins, in his latest comments, acknowledged his frustration with the team’s form but expressed confidence in the squad’s potential to turn things around. He emphasized the importance of maintaining faith in the project and the hard work being done in training sessions.
In addition to their league campaign, Stoke will shift their focus to the FA Cup in early February. They are set to face Cardiff City on February 8, a game that could offer some redemption. While progressing in the cup might provide a morale boost, Robins knows that survival in the Championship remains the top priority.
With back-to-back decisive fixtures on the horizon, Stoke City must act quickly to regain their footing. The outcome of these matches could either reignite their season or deepen their troubles as they fight to avoid the drop. Fans and players alike will be hoping that Robins’ belief in the squad translates into results on the pitch.