Football Season Review

This was an absolutely horrendous season for Stoke. They were expected to challenge for promotion but they failed to do that and had to be content with a lower mid-table slot. Gary Rowett was appointed new boss last summer but really struggled to motivate the side and was under immediate pressure after some poor early season results. Rowett in the end paid with his job and was replaced by Nathan Jones, formerly of Luton. Jones took his time and has not really been much of an upgrade to Rowett at this time. He will have a huge summer to bring in players of his own and likely to be under immediate pressure to get results early in the new season. Stoke's biggest asset has been their defence. They conceded just 52 goals thanks largely to the form of Jack Butland in goal. Stoke may well struggle to keep Butland now this summer. But they only scored 45 times themselves with Benik Afobe managing just nine goals in the season despite big things being expected of him. Stoke's away form was also bleak with just three wins. There are areas throughout to work on for Jones.

Player of the Season: Jack Butland