Ali Al-Hamadi

‘Outstanding’ – Mark Robins Breaks Silence on Surprise Stoke City Hero After Cardiff Clash”

April 15, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Stoke City striker Sam Gallagher received high praise from manager Mark Robins after coming on as a substitute in their crucial 1-0 victory over Cardiff City. With the team fighting to avoid relegation, Gallagher’s impact was key in helping the Potters secure three important points. Robins, speaking after the match, acknowledged the tense atmosphere at the Cardiff City Stadium and praised Gallagher for his efforts, noting that the tactical substitution was aimed at applying pressure in the second half.

Gallagher, who joined Stoke last summer, has been a valuable addition to the squad, offering depth and experience in attack. Despite dealing with injuries earlier in the season, he has contributed three goals in 19 appearances so far. With just four games left, Gallagher will play a vital role in Stoke’s efforts to maintain their Championship status, and Robins will need to decide whether to start him in the upcoming fixtures against Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United.

Mark Robins’ Bold Half-Time Move Sparks Speculation as Stoke City Enter Season’s Crucial Final Stretch

April 14, 2025 RAYMOND 0

In a tense encounter at Cardiff, Mark Robins made a decisive half-time substitution, swapping Ali Al-Hamadi for Sam Gallagher to ensure Stoke City maintained a full squad on the pitch. Al-Hamadi, who had returned to the starting line-up after a two-week recovery from a hip injury, was involved in creating an early chance for Lewis Baker. However, his yellow card for a foul in first-half stoppage time, following an earlier warning, led Robins to act swiftly.

Robins explained after the match that the decision was a tactical one, aimed at keeping Stoke’s momentum intact without risking another booking. “Ali had run about, but I just felt he was a little bit hot-headed,” Robins said. “I couldn’t risk them throwing themselves to the ground and the referee… it was all on edge.” The move proved crucial, as Gallagher came on and helped Stoke secure a vital 1-0 victory, stretching their lead over Cardiff to five points with just four games remaining in the Championship season.