Walters wields the axe by sacking Stoke manager after five games

DIFFICULT DECISIONS: Former Ireland forward Jon Walters has made a major call in his capacity as Stoke City sporting director by sacking manager Steven Schumacher. Picture: Nathan Stirk/Getty Images

Former Ireland forward Jon Walters has made a major call in his capacity as Stoke City sporting director by sacking manager Steven Schumacher.

The Potters won two of their opening Championship matches but Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at newly-promoted Oxford United prompted Waters to act.

A raft of Irish players are at the club, including Enda Stevens, Bosul Lawal, Jack Bonham, Andy Moran and recent recruit Tom Cannon.

Walters said of the decision to axe the manager they prised from Plymouth Argyle: “My role as Sporting Director is to make tough decisions that serve the long-term interests of Stoke City.

“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.” 

Walters won 54 caps for Ireland scoring 14 goals and began his coaching career by assisting an Ireland U19 squad that featured Moran and Lawal.

He was appointed director of football at the Fleetwood group that included Waterford but returned to his former club Stoke as ultimate footballer overseer earlier this year.

With Mark Hughes, Chris Cohen, Peter Cavanagh and Elliot Turner having also left the Club, Alex Morris and Ryan Shawcross will take caretaker charge of the team.

Chair John Coates added: “Steven, Mark, Chris, Peter and Elliot depart with our thanks for their efforts and with our best wishes for their future careers.

“We have faith in the squad of players we have assembled and firmly believe they can bring success to Stoke City this season.

“I continue to be hugely thankful to the Club’s fans for their loyal and passionate support.”