Stoke City Handed Injury Boost Ahead of Coventry Clash as Four Players Close In on Returns
Stoke City are beginning to see light at the end of what has been a difficult injury-hit period, with four sidelined players edging closer to a return as they prepare to face Coventry City in the run-in to the Championship season.
Head coach Mark Robins is expected to travel to Coventry with largely the same squad that has been available in recent weeks. However, there is growing optimism behind the scenes at Clayton Wood, as several key players are scheduled to rejoin training at the start of the week — a development that could significantly strengthen Stoke’s options for the final stretch of the campaign.
Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu (thigh), defender Junior Tchamdeu (knee), striker Sam Gallagher (hamstring), and forward Divin Mubama (ankle) are all aiming to be back in contention before the season concludes. Their potential return would mark a major turning point after a winter period heavily disrupted by injuries to important first-team figures. Stoke have struggled for consistency during this time, with absences forcing Robins to frequently reshuffle his lineup.
While there is encouraging news on several fronts, the Potters have also suffered a fresh setback. Experienced defender Aaron Cresswell is expected to be out “for a while” after aggravating a calf problem. Cresswell battled through discomfort to help Stoke secure a 2-2 draw against Leicester last weekend, showing his professionalism and commitment, but the issue now appears likely to sideline him for an extended spell.
Meanwhile, several other players remain unavailable. Viktor Johansson, Bosun Lawal, Lewis Baker, Ato Ampah and Robert Bozenik are all still undergoing treatment as Stoke continue their attempt to climb back up the Championship table during the final 12 games of the season.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Robins offered an update on Cresswell’s condition and the wider injury situation. He admitted Cresswell is “not great” but praised his resilience and determination to recover as quickly as possible. The manager stressed that the defender’s attitude mirrors that of the entire squad — a group eager to return and contribute during this crucial period.
Robins was more upbeat when discussing the players nearing comebacks. He confirmed that Tchamdeu, Gallagher, Bazunu and Mubama are all expected to resume training on Monday, describing it as “significant progress.” The potential reintegration of these players could provide Stoke with renewed energy, greater competition for places, and improved depth at a decisive stage of the season.
With the Championship campaign entering its final phase, Stoke City will be hoping that the return of key figures can help them build momentum and finish strongly after navigating a challenging spell defined by injuries and squad disruption.
