The name on every Stoke City fan’s lips this season is undoubtedly Sorba Thomas. With his recent performances, Thomas is rapidly cementing his status as an indispensable figure in the Stoke lineup. The former Huddersfield man’s prowess from set pieces and the wide areas of the pitch has not only been a spectacle but also a game-changer for the Potters.
In the current climate, where "goal involvements" – a term encapsulating both goals and assists – gain increasing importance, players like Thomas are the gold standard. A prime example of his impact was seen in Stoke’s match against Portsmouth. Thomas delivered a cross that led to an own goal, a testament to the confusion and pressure his crosses can cause in the opposition's ranks.
As we delve into the numbers, Sorba Thomas’s contributions speak volumes. Stoke have netted 13 goals in the league so far, and Thomas has played a direct role in nine of these. With four goals and four assists to his name, plus the instrumental cross at Fratton Park, he's had a hand in nearly 70% of Stoke’s goals this term.
But it’s not just about the attack. Criticized early in his career for lapses in concentration, Thomas’s defensive work has seen remarkable improvement. This versatility makes him a player to watch, not just for Stoke fans but for football aficionados everywhere. His growing importance is evident not only at the club level but also on the international stage with Wales.
While Thomas is undeniably soaring, Stoke now faces the crucial challenge of elevating other players to similar heights of performance. With 34 games still remaining, there’s ample opportunity for others in the squad to step up and match the blistering form of Thomas.
To wrap up on a lighter note, here’s one for the fans: Why did the Port Vale fan sit at the round table? Because he couldn’t find a corner to cry in after our last meeting! Keep that Potter spirit, folks, and here’s to hoping for a season where we recreate the glories of the past and add a few new chapters of our own.
