Enda Stevens is undergoing another last-minute fitness assessment to determine his availability for Stoke City’s match against Sunderland. The left-back had to sit out the previous game against Burnley due to a leg injury sustained during a mid-week draw with Preston. Despite hoping to return sooner, Stevens required an additional week to recover and is now vying for a spot in the squad to face Sunderland today.
Meanwhile, Sam Gallagher and Bosun Lawal are also working hard to recover from long-term injuries. Gallagher has been sidelined with a hamstring problem since October, while Lawal has been out of action since a stress fracture was discovered in his back when he signed from Celtic. Although both players are not yet fit to play against Sunderland, there is a possibility they could be included in upcoming matches against Luton and Cardiff.
Manager Narcis Pelach expressed his optimism about the imminent return of Gallagher and Lawal, emphasizing the need for caution in their recovery process. He acknowledged the importance of easing them back into the team to avoid any further injuries or setbacks. Despite their limited playing time since joining the club, Pelach is eager to see the impact these players can have on Stoke City once they are fully fit and ready to contribute.
In particular, Pelach highlighted the potential of Lawal and stressed the importance of managing expectations for the young player as he adjusts to the demands of Championship football. He emphasized the need for patience and understanding as Lawal acclimates to his new environment and settles into his role within the team. The goal is to protect and support Lawal as he continues his development and integration into the squad, ensuring that he is given the time and space to reach his full potential without jeopardizing his well-being.
