UPDATE: Stoke City starting lineup against Coventry as Schumacher searches for a unique talent.

Following a crucial victory for Stoke City in mid-week, Steven Schumacher faces the challenge of securing consecutive wins, a feat the team has struggled with this season. The win against Queens Park Rangers marked the first home victory since October, highlighting the team’s difficulties in maintaining momentum at home.

Throughout the season, Stoke has only managed back-to-back wins once, during a successful week in October when they defeated Sunderland, Leeds United, and Middlesbrough. Their struggles to secure successive wins at home have been evident, with only two instances of consecutive home victories this term, both occurring early in the season.

Schumacher acknowledges the significance of breaking this pattern, emphasizing the relief for the fans and the importance of shedding the stigma associated with home performances. He expresses hope that the team has turned a corner and can build on this success in the upcoming fixture.

As Stoke prepares for their next match, Schumacher will face selection dilemmas but remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, aiming to capitalize on the recent victory and deliver another positive result for the fans.

It seems that Daniel Iversen will retain his position as the goalkeeper for Stoke City after delivering his best performance for the team. Additionally, it’s expected that Steven Schumacher will stick with the back three formation that proved effective in the previous match, consisting of Ki-Jana Hoever, Luke McNally, and Michael Rose.

There may be updates this afternoon regarding the fitness of Junior Tchamadeu and Wouter Burger, who both sustained injuries during the previous game. If they are fit to play, it’s likely that they will resume their positions in midfield, with Tchamadeu on the right, Jordan Thompson on the left, and Burger partnered with Lewis Baker in the middle. However, Lynden Gooch and Josh Laurent are available as alternatives if needed.

Up front, Luke Cundle and Bae Junho are expected to continue supporting Niall Ennis, with praise for their work rate in the previous match. Sead Haksabanovic and Andre Vidigal, who can also play in the attacking midfield role, were not involved in the previous game but remain options for Schumacher as he manages a large squad for the remainder of the season.

It seems that if Luke Cundle and Bae Junho, who are known for their athleticism, show signs of fatigue, Steven Schumacher may consider making some tactical adjustments. Lewis Baker could be pushed forward to provide additional support in attack, potentially making way for players like Josh Laurent, Ben Pearson, or even Tyrese Campbell to be introduced.

There’s also the possibility of Million Manhoef making his first home appearance, offering an option on the right wing. However, Ryan Mmaee remains unavailable as he continues training with the under-21s, while Enda Stevens is still recovering from a hamstring injury.

After a win that has helped stabilize the team, it’s likely that Schumacher will opt for fewer changes compared to recent weeks. This approach aims to maintain continuity and build on the positive momentum gained from the recent victory.

Predicted starting lineup for Stoke against Coventry: Iversen, Hoever, McNally, Rose, Gooch, Thompson, Burger, Baker, Cundle, Junho, and Ennis.