Concerns have been raised by a Stoke City fan pundit as the club edges closer to securing Steven Schumacher as their new manager, succeeding Alex Neil. Schumacher, currently with Plymouth Argyle, is reportedly set to fill the managerial vacancy at Stoke City after a compensation fee agreement between the two clubs.
The 39-year-old has garnered attention for his managerial success at Plymouth, where he played a pivotal role in their promotion to the Championship, clinching the League One title last season. Stoke’s pursuit of Schumacher as Neil’s replacement has been met with optimism from FLW’s Stoke City fan pundit, Ben Rowley.
Rowley acknowledges the positive aspects of Schumacher’s coaching style, citing an attacking brand of football, tactical flexibility, and a focus on fundamental team principles. Despite expressing confidence in the appointment, Rowley voices a primary concern – Schumacher’s limited managerial experience, having primarily been associated with Plymouth and Bury. The pundit points out defensive issues at Plymouth, raising caution considering Stoke’s precarious league position, just two points above relegation.
While Rowley acknowledges the risk, he sees it as an ambitious move that could pay off if Schumacher successfully maintains Stoke’s position in the league and instills his vision for the club’s style of play. Schumacher’s potential debut as Stoke City’s manager could be against Millwall on December 23 if the appointment is finalized in time.
Despite Schumacher’s relative lack of experience, his successful transition to the Championship with Plymouth, achieving automatic promotion and leaving them in a commendable 16th position in the table, adds an element of excitement to the appointment. Both Stoke City and Schumacher face heightened expectations and pressure in this new chapter, with the manager expected to build on his past achievements and make a positive impact at Stoke.
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