Stoke City team news and predicted XI to face Portsmouth
The latest Stoke City team news as Narcis Pelach’s side gear up to face Portsmouth in the Championship.
Stoke City will be looking to pick up their first win of the Narcis Pelach era against Portsmouth later today.
Stoke City opted for a surprise change in manager earlier this season, relieving Steven Schumacher of his duties and placing Spanish coach Pelach at the helm of the club.
He hasn’t had long to work with his new group since arriving from the Norwich City backroom team. However, two defeats from two games under his lead has not seen the new tenure start on a high.
After sacrificing the lead to lose against Hull City in his first game, Pelach’s Potters were soundly beaten by Middlesbrough at the weekend. Boro emerged 2-0 winners with Ben Doak and Hayden Hackney netting.
Stoke City now face a Portsmouth side yet to win this season. But, given the dismal run of fixtures Pompey have started the campaign with, spirits aren’t too low at Fratton Park just yet.
Stoke City team news
Ahead of the clash with Portsmouth, Pelach confirmed that there is doubt surrounding the availability of Dutch star Million Manhoef after he came off in the defeat to Middlesbrough at the weekend.
The Stoke City head coach said there are ‘doubts’ surrounding Manhoef and he will have to be checked upon in the morning to see if he can feature.
