Three players Stoke City should target to solve right-back issue | OneFootball

Stoke City are in desperate need of a new right-back this winter having seen Harry Clarke recalled by Arsenal.

Clarke has since signed for Ipswich Town leaving Alex Neil with just Dujon Sterling as his only available right back in his squad and the Chelsea loanee has played just seven games so far this season.

It’s been a season of struggle so far for Neil, who is desperate to re-balance his squad this winter with his side lacking several players in specialist areas. One of those areas is as mentioned at right-back and with Neil changing formations several times this season, a right-sided wing-back is an absolute must.

It will address certain issues in the side and give Neil reassurance that he can deploy any formation he wants knowing he has a player who can perform on the right-hand side.

With that in mind, we’ve decided to take a look at three players Neil could target this January to address the issue at right-back this season.

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Sam Byram – Norwich City

Byram has been used sparingly by Norwich ever since he moved to Carrow Road.

He’s made just 43 appearances in three and a half years in Norfolk and at 29, he will be desperate for games. He’s proved to be a solid right-back and can deputise at left-back if needed giving Neil plenty of options.

Like Coyle, Byram boasts plenty of experience and has played in the top flight for West Ham and Norwich, as well over 150 games in the Championship. He will be out of contract in the summer and Stoke could make the move should they see fit.

Lewie Coyle – Hull City

The Hull City captain has found first-team opportunities hard to come by since Liam Rosenior’s arrival at the MKM Stadium.

Couple that with Cyrus Christie being the preferred option at right-back and Coyle could find himself out the door this January.

The former Leeds defender is a solid option, and with him being out of contract in the summer, it might not be too difficult trying to secure his signature.

Coyle would bring a wealth of experience and leadership into the team, something they desperately need, and at 27, he’s in his prime years.

Cody Drameh – Leeds United

Leeds might be looking to move Drameh on in January having struggled to break into the first team this season. He would be a loan option for Stoke and one that has previous at Championship level.

The 21-year-old played 22 games last season for Cardiff City and became a key figure in the side. Going forward, he contributed three assists last season as well as creating a further four big chances, according to Sofascore.

He will give Stoke energy as they look to bolster their attack, as well as ensure they’re covered defensively. Neil’s side would benefit hugely from his powerful running up and down the pitch and it might inject some fresh impetus into the side.