Stoke City sack Steven Schumacher after five games of new season

Stoke City have announced that they have sacked head coach Steven Schumacher.

They lost 1-0 to Oxford United at the weekend, leading sporting director Jon Walters to take the decision to part ways with the former Plymouth boss, who leaves after less than a year in charge.

"My role is to make tough decisions that serve the long-term interests of Stoke City," stated Walters. "After ongoing discussions with 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."

The Potters have started the new campaign with two wins from their five games in the league and sit 13th in the Championship standings.