Mark Robins explains the Stoke City change he’s been waiting for

Stoke City manager Mark Robins has highlighted the enhanced depth of his squad, explaining that having impactful substitutes has allowed him to influence matches effectively. Robins noted that, compared to when he first arrived at the club, he now possesses the quality options from the bench required to maintain momentum and adapt during tough Championship fixtures.

Stoke have won four consecutive away games and could match a club record dating back to 1947 with a fifth straight away victory against Portsmouth. Robins has averaged 4.3 substitutions per match this season, with players like Sam Gallagher, Robert Bozenik, Junior Tchamadeu, and £6 million summer signing George Hirst contributing directly to goals as substitutes.