Stoke star ‘isn’t a kid anymore’, exclusion from squad not a worry for entourage

 

Whatever has happened to Giannelli Imbula? France Football have decided to go find out.

Rescued by Stoke City last January following a nightmare first six months at Porto, the 24-year-old defensive midfielder was a key player in the run in of the club’s season, helping them finish ninth in the Premier League ahead of Chelsea and just behind Liverpool.

Playing all but one game in full (14 starts) and scoring two goals, the former Marseille midfielder has pretty much disappeared from existence since the 4-0 loss to Spurs, not even featuring the squad for the last three games.

However, speaking to France Football, the player’s father (and agent), Willy Ndangi, explained all was under control.

He said: “The manager has given him time to rest. Since he arrived in January, he played in every game. The manager is communicating with Giannelli, he’s clear with him. It’s not like at Porto.

“The fixture list is busy, and he will need him. Giannelli isn’t a kid anymore, he’s a professional, and a worker. I’m not worried. It’s only the 10th week.”

Only making four appearances in the league and one in the EFL Cup, results appear to have improved since his exclusion from the squad with two wins in Stoke’s last two games allowing the club to climb out of the relegation zone.

He’ll be back.