While all the buzz has been about the traditional top teams in the Premier League, Stoke City have quietly gone about their business this season unnoticed.
First, they acquired the services of ex-England Internationals Jonathan Woodgate and Matthew Upson, to seal the back. Next, they enlisted the services of Wilson Palacios to provide cover for the midfield, and inject some creativity. The final piece of the puzzle was the signing of Peter Crouch and Cameron Jerome to booster their attacking options.
So why all the reinforcements in an already solid mid-table team? Certainly not survival. They've successfully done that since coming into the Premier League. No, Stoke has other plans. They like their new Euro status so much they are thinking of staying. Not only are they planning to challenge for a top six position in the league, they are also eyeing the Europa Trophy.
You think that's a lofty dream? I don't.
Consider this, in their four league games this season, Stoke City have only conceded a single goal, en route to racking up a eight points in total. Staunch defending against Chelsea in their opening game and a Commando defensive performance against Liverpool today in their 1-0 home victory, are testimonies to their aspirations this season.
I think Stoke City are poised to take Europe by surprise. What do you think?
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