Stoke City vs Oxford United: A preview that worries The Potters, mired in irregularity in the Championship | OneFootball

Stoke City’s 2024/25 campaign has been far from ideal, with inconsistency defining their performances under manager Mark Robins.

Their most recent loss to Portsmouth, a team also battling to escape the relegation zone, highlighted their vulnerabilities. Despite Portsmouth’s struggles, they managed a convincing 3-1 victory, leaving Stoke City just two points above the drop zone.

A Season of Frustration for Stoke City

The Potters’ form over their last two games has been worrying, with a draw and a defeat reflecting a lack of competitiveness.

With only one point per game on average this season, Stoke City’s inability to build momentum has placed them in a precarious position.

Oxford United: A Formidable Challenge

Next on Stoke City’s schedule is a home match against Oxford United, currently in 14th place with 35 points. Oxford has shown flashes of promise this season, making them a dangerous opponent for a struggling Stoke side.

The last meeting between these teams on September 14, 2024, ended in a 1-0 victory for Oxford United. That match marked the end of Steven Schumacher’s tenure as Stoke City manager, adding to the historical significance of their upcoming clash. With Mark Robins now at the helm, there is hope for a more positive outcome this time.

A Must-Win Scenario

The stakes are high for Stoke City as they aim to distance themselves from the relegation zone. Sitting just two points ahead of 22nd-place Hull City, every match becomes crucial for survival. A victory against Oxford United would not only boost morale but also provide a much-needed cushion in the standings.

For Mark Robins and his squad, the Bet365 Stadium clash represents an opportunity to turn their season around and build momentum heading into the latter stages of the EFL Championship. Failure to do so could see Stoke City slide further into danger.