Stoke City's Club Legend Shawcross Assumes Leadership Role

After a short-lived stint of just nine months, Steven Schumacher was controversially sacked despite leading the team to victory in four out of seven games in all competitions. The final straw came after a disappointing 1-0 loss to Oxford United this weekend.

Now, former captain and club legend Shawcross takes control of the club after spending 14 years there after joining on loan from Manchester United. He racked up more than 400 appearances for the Potters when they were in the Premier League and rightly became a club legend. 

His first game will come in Tuesday's Carabao Cup third-round tie at home to Fleetwood Town before hosting  Hull City on Friday night  in what could be a good run of games to bounce back in to form. 

Ex player Jon Walters  spoke on Schumacher’s departure and how it was a shock to many. 

"My role as sporting director is to make tough decisions that serve the long-term interests of Stoke City. After ongoing discussions with (chairman) John Coates, we feel the time is right for a change in direction to bring success to the club. 

"We have a young, dynamic squad that is eager to develop and a clear vision of how to achieve success, and we hope to announce a new appointment shortly. We will need the fans, staff, and players united in support to achieve our goals. As always in football, these decisions are difficult, and we wish Steven and his staff all the best for the future."