Predicting Final Premier League 2017/18 Table After Transfer Deadline

Last season’s standing of 13th was Mark Hughes’ lowest finish in his ten full seasons as a Premier League manager, and Stoke’s poorest since 2012-13.

Hughes identified defence as the primary reason for this regression – Stoke conceded three or more goals in eight matches last term – and has answered in a big way.

Kevin Wimmer and Kurt Zouma (loan) have come in and Bruno Martins Indi has returned on a permanent deal. The nous and leadership skills of free transfer Darren Fletcher should also help prevent these capitulations.

There was still room for Hughes to attract another Champions League winner to the Potteries. Jese Rodriguez, a victim of PSG’s book balancing in the wake of the Neymar outlay, could supply the gold dust to send Stoke back to the top half.