Though Tony Mowbray still has a number of selection issues in terms of both injury and suspension, his options are steadily improving.
So what’s his strongest XI for the trip to Stoke, and how might that change in the big games that follow? And perhaps an even bigger question as that squad depth improves, who is set to return to the bench and who might miss out as a result?
5. NIALL HUGGINS
At this stage, this is probably the hardest position to pick not just for the Stoke City trip but for the games following. Huggins came off with a muscle complaint during the Middlesbrough defeat and so is a doubt for the upcoming fixtures, though the initial hope was that the substitution was precautionary and that no major issue was expected. If that is the case, then it will allow Mowbray to be patient with Aji Alese and Dennis Cirkin. Both have been training with the team over the international break, but Alese needs to build his match sharpness and the head coach had expected Cirkin to be fully fit later in the month. There is a strong argument given his performances that Huggin deserves the chance to continue regardless. Photo: Frank Reid
6. PIERRE EKWAH
Ekwah has been training over the international break, suggesting that he is now ready to return from his leg injury. That is a big boost for Mowbray and his side, with the midfielder building on his outstanding finish to last season. With Dan Neil suspended, he will return to the starting XI in a more holding midfield role. Mowbray will likely then return to the partnership that started the season impressively, leaving the head coach with a big dilemma just ahead of them. Photo: Frank Reid
7. JOBE
Jobe has shown maturity well beyond his years by easily dropping into a more disciplined role since Pierre Ekwah’s injury, and Dan Neil’s suspension means he will stay there for the trip to Stoke at least. His athleticism and aerial ability mean you think Mowbray will be keen to get him back in a more advanced role when Neil is available, with the more experienced options asked to make an impact from the bench. At some stage, Mowbray would like the option to rest the 18-year-old but his consistency makes that difficult. Photo: Frank Reid
8. PATRICK ROBERTS
Roberts was inches away from getting his first goal of the season against Middlesbrough with a stunning solo strike, denied only by a very good save. Roberts’ quality is obvious but he also has real competition now, with Abdoullah Ba impressing the season and taking a big step forward now that he looks settled into a consistent role as a winger. He’ll get more opportunities in the weeks ahead at some stage, and it’s up to Roberts to respond to the new challenge. His form over the last 18 months suggests he will. Photo: Frank Reid