Bowen’s Cup Hope

Assistant manager says Hull tie is chance to ‘put things right’

MARK BOWEN believes Stoke City’s players will be itching to impress in tonight’s EFL Cup Third Round tie against Hull City – whichever of them are selected.

Changes to the starting eleven are likely to be made again as the Potters look to make further progress in the competition after last month’s Second Round success at Stevenage.

Which players Mark Hughes decides to go with is still something to be determined but Bowen believes those that are handed starting roles will be eager to put Sunday’s defeat at Crystal Palace behind them and stake their claims for a place against West Bromwich Albion at the weekend.

“We’re all happy that we’ve got this midweek game whoever it may be against”, Bowen said at the pre-match press conference.

“The dressing room is actually bubbly now and one of the reasons is because those squad players can maybe see their chance to get in; that adds that little spice on the training ground as well.”

Stoke come up against a Hull City side under the caretaker management of Mike Phelan following Steve Bruce’s departure earlier this summer.

Despite fears of relegation amongst fans and media alike following a summer of discontent, Phelan has steadied the ship remarkably well to the point of being offered the job recently on a permanent basis.

Three successive wins at the start of their campaign highlighted resilience and camaraderie in the Tigers camp and Bowen has praised a man he’s known for many years through footballing circles.

“I know Micky Phelan very well and I’m delighted for him,” he added.