Shawcross ready to take next step

Former Stoke City captain Ryan Shawcross has said he would welcome the opportunity to take charge of the team against Fleetwood Town in the League Cup third round.

The 36-year-old will be supported on the bench by first-team coach Alex Morris following Steven Schumacher’s sacking on Monday.

Speaking to the club ahead of their clash against the League Two side, Shawcross said:

“To represent Stoke City in this way means a lot to me, and of course I have a lot of love and respect for our brilliant fans.

“The work the team has done to reach the third round, with young teams overcoming clashes against Carlisle United and Middlesbrough, has been impressive – and the prize on the line tonight is a big one.”

Shawcross added that he was looking forward to seeing a familiar face back at the bet365 Stadium as former Potter Charlie Adam coaches Fleetwood Town.

“Charlie needs no introduction, having represented the Club on 179 occasions between 2012 and 2019.

“His time at the Club has seen some of the most successful seasons in our history and I am sure he will receive a warm welcome on his return to ST4.

“They will undoubtedly raise their game for the occasion against Championship opponents, and the team we select will have to be up to the task if we are to progress in the competition.”