All Stoked Up
Fansided

Narcis Pelach Once Again Places His Trust in These Two Players

• Back in the starting lineup for the Championship
• Impressive statistics despite their young age
• An exciting EFL Championship matchup awaits

ByOscar Cortes|
Narcis Pelach Once Again Places His Trust in These Two Players
Narcis Pelach Once Again Places His Trust in These Two Players | Nathan Stirk/GettyImages

The return of these two players to Stoke City’s starting lineup is highly significant. Both Andrew Moran and Lewis Koumas have been crucial early in the season, showing remarkable potential despite their young age.

Notably, 21-year-old Andrew Moran is taking control of the team’s midfield with near perfection. Although neither player is officially a long-term part of Stoke City, there’s hope they’ll stay beyond the 2024-2025 season, as both players—Koumas, at 18, and Moran, at 21—are ideal for the club’s ambitions to build a team capable of returning to the Premier League.

READ MORE: Emre Tezgel Shows Perfect Form with Stoke City U21

Moran and Koumas: Key Figures for Stoke City's Future

It will be essential to observe how they develop this season, as both players have started in today's match against Blackburn Rovers. These two have quickly established themselves in Narcis Pelach’s squad, gaining his confidence and also playing a notable role under previous manager Steven Schumacher. After Schumacher’s departure, Pelach took charge and continued emphasizing the importance of young talent.

Lewis Koumas, now 18, has already appeared in 12 Championship matches, scoring two goals and providing one assist as he gradually adapts to Stoke City. Coming from Liverpool’s youth system, where he was known for his strong ball control and lethal goal-scoring ability, Koumas brings an attacking edge to the squad.

Meanwhile, 21-year-old Andrew Moran, a standout from his country’s youth teams, has played 11 Championship games this season, contributing one assist and scoring two crucial goals in just 381 minutes.

Expectations are high for him, with hopes he’ll leave a lasting legacy at Stoke City. However, it will take time to see how his career unfolds, as his command of the midfield has raised the bar. Stoke City aims to retain him, though it might prove challenging, given that his standout performances could prompt Brighton to call him back to the Premier League.

Home/Stoke City FC News