The BBVA Compass Dynamo Charities Cup is only two weeks away, and we want to update you on what's happening with the Stoke City squad.
Off-season is officially over for Stoke City, as the team reported for its first day of training leading up to the 2013-14 season. New manager Mark Hughes likes what he's seen of the team so far. "I've been really pleased with the attitude and application - I think that's really important because if you've got a good group you can put things to them and try and work with them," said Hughes.
Hughes believes that newly acquired Dutch left back Erik Pieters will have no trouble transitioning to the English Premier League (EPL). For Pieters, who had been plagued with injuries during his 18-month spell with PSV Eindhoven, the 24-year-old sees this move to Stoke City as one where he can make a fresh start. "This is the start of something new for me now and I am so excited to be here at Stoke City. It is a fantastic Club, and one that I felt great warmth from as soon as I arrived here," Pieters said.
Stoke City is looking to acquire a "top-10" striker to lead them into the top-half of the Premier League. Hughes will not make a decision any time soon as he takes a few weeks to assess his squad.
A young upcoming talent is 15-year-old Julien Ngoy, who is training with the Potters' U-16 squad. The striker led that team with 25 goals last season. While they are pursuing Ngoy, they are still focusing on developing home-grown players.
Could veteran forward
Peter Crouch be leaving Stoke City
? Possibly, as the front man is garnering many attractive offers from various squads.
Stoke City travels to Houston to face the Dynamo on Wednesday, July 24 at 8 p.m. CT. If you want to get tickets or more information on the upcomming match,
click here
.
