Stoke City boasts the strongest defense in the league, having conceded only 23 goals this season.
While injured goalkeeper Viktor Johansson has garnered much acclaim for this impressive statistic, I believe the back four deserve equal recognition for their contributions.
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They form an unyielding wall; it’s clear from watching them that they are determined to win challenges, pursue every ball, and fight until the final whistle.
In his debut for Stoke, new goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, on loan from Southampton, had very little to do, as the defense secured their fourth consecutive clean sheet.
However, a solid defense alone won’t secure victories or propel Stoke back into the play-off spots.
If their attacking lineup can complement the robust defense, they will be nearly unstoppable. Unfortunately, with striker Divin Mubama stretchered off during the match against QPR, there may be challenges ahead.