City’s Links

The transfer window latches open soon which means the rumours are blowing around the footballing world, as fans listen out to try and catch wind of some of them. A couple have floated in from the national press this week linking Stoke to a couple of big names, which will encourage eagerly anticipated supporters.

The Sun has reported that Wayne Bridge of Manchester City is a target for Tony. Pulis apparently will look to sign him on loan, to give the Southampton born 30 year old some games. Bridge has only made 1 full match appearance so far this season for Roberto Mancini, but wants to play more. My opinion on Bridge is that he is a decent player who has the potential to become a quality squad member. Although the left-back position can be covered by Danny Higginbotham and Danny Collins, they are both more comfortable playing in the centre of defence. Bridge would be the natural left-back that would adopt the role with the proven ability he has shown for previous clubs and England.

Also, reports suggest that Tottenham’s Republic of Ireland international Robbie Keane could make a move up north. Also desperate for games, Keane will look to leave White Hart Lane now he has seemed to fall out of favour with Tony’s old mentor Harry Redknapp. Keane, in my eyes, would be a fantastic addition but I have to ask; would he suit our style of play? Keane is a player who prefers to receive passes to his feet, and perhaps isn’t noted for his airal ability. Maybe he can adapt, but if he can’t, he may suffer if he came to Stoke. Apart from that he has a great eye for goal and will work his socks off, because he is a passionate player with a driven attitude.

However, Stoke City chairman Peter Coats has dismissed this speculation as untrue. He has told Sky Sports that Pulis has made no approach to him about targeting Wayne Bridge. He also mentioned that the club do not require any more strikers, although has not dismissed the move for Robbie Keane entirely.

Stoke City are also apparently looking towards USA international striker Teal Bunbury. The Sporting Kansas City Wizards star is currently at The Britannia Stadium on trial, as Pulis assesses him as a potential player for our red and white side. The 20 year old Canadian-American has scored 13 goals within the past 26 appearances for the Major League Soccer side and could be one for Pulis to nurture. He’s unknown to me and most probably most Stoke fans, so this is where Tony’s individual player judgement comes into play. If our manager sees a youthful spark in the lad then I suggest going for him, obviously for the right price however. Bunbury scored for Stoke`s reserves in a 3-1 home defeat by Wigan two days ago at Clayton Wood Training Ground.