Stoke City begin their Championship campaign at home to Swansea with Lamine Cisse sidelined but Junior Tchamadeu and Ato Ampah back in training. The Potters, who finished 16th last season with 55 points (15W-10D-17L), are looking to improve after a mixed pre-season. **
Who is missing for Stoke City?**
Forward Lamine Cisse is out after picking up a knock in training. The 23-year-old is expected to return for the trip to Southampton next weekend. Milan Smit’s loan departure to Darmstadt has also seen 18-year-old Tyler Martin named among the substitutes. **
Who returns to the squad?**
Right-back Junior Tchamadeu and winger Ato Ampah, who missed most of pre-season, are back in training and could feature soon. Mark Robins has also handed league debuts to Luke Graham, Svante Ingelsson, and Ethan Galbraith after their Carabao Cup win over Oldham. **
What does Robins say?**
The manager believes his squad is stronger than last season, despite finishing 31 points behind leaders Coventry. Robins said: "We have talented players and are in a better position than 12 months ago." **
What’s next for Stoke City?**
After Swansea, Stoke travel to Sheffield United on February 20, 2027. The Blades sit 17th in the Championship, just one place below the Potters.
