JUST IN: Stoke City reshuffle coaching set-up ahead of huge final eight games of the season

March 28, 2024 Michael Mills other 0

Stoke City has reorganized their coaching staff to focus on the first team ahead of the crucial final eight games of the season.

Alex Morris is transitioning to work with Steven Schumacher’s senior coaching setup. Initially recruited from Crewe Alexandra last summer, Morris had established a strong reputation as a highly regarded coach, juggling responsibilities across the under-21s and the first team.

Having previously worked with Schumacher at Crewe, Morris has already been contributing on match days. However, during the recent international break, he has also taken on training duties with the first team, joining the coaching staff alongside Schumacher, Peter Cavanagh, Paul Gallagher, and Mark Hughes.

Ryan Shawcross, who previously collaborated with Morris in overseeing the under-21s, will now oversee that age group with assistance from former Stoke teammate Liam Lawrence. Lawrence, who has earned praise in the academy since his return to the club in 2020, will support Shawcross in his new role. Additionally, Darren Potter will be transitioning to the under-18s to assist Dace Hibbert.

Stoke currently occupy the 19th position in the tightly packed lower half of the Championship, holding a slim two-point lead above the relegation zone. The gap between Millwall in 16th place and Huddersfield in 22nd is just four points. They are set to face Hull City on Good Friday and then host Huddersfield Town on Monday.

Jon Walters, the interim technical director, announced several changes within the coaching staff to bolster the first team for the forthcoming eight matches. Alex Morris is now transitioning to work closely with the first team, a move supported by both the management and the experienced coaching staff. While Morris already contributes from the stands on match days, his involvement on the training ground will offer additional perspectives and expertise.

In addition, Ryan Shawcross will now lead the under-21s, along with support from former Stoke player Liam Lawrence, while Dave Hibbert will guide the under-18s, assisted by Darren Potter. These adjustments span across various age groups in the academy.

Stoke is optimistic about the emerging talent at Clayton Wood, including Nathan Lowe, Emre Tezgel, David Okagbue, Tommy Simkin, Sol Sidibe, Jaden Dixon, Freddie Anderson, and Christy Grogan, signaling a promising future for the club.

While the coaching structure is set for reevaluation at the season’s end, Alex Morris is highly esteemed at the bet365 Stadium. Walters commended Morris’s coaching abilities, highlighting his positive reputation within and outside of Stoke City. Recognized for his dedication to the club, Morris is considered a valuable asset in the first-team environment, emphasizing the importance of his role in the upcoming crucial matches.

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