Mark Robins conceded he had dealt himself a losing hand in Stoke City’s Carabao Cup exit to Bradford City — but the Potters manager is already turning his attention to Saturday’s Championship clash with West Bromwich Albion.
Robins made sweeping changes from the side that defeated Southampton, with 10 new faces in the starting XI, and his rotated squad struggled to match the intensity of their League One opponents, who stormed to a 3-0 win at Valley Parade.
“We understood the risks with the changes,” Robins reflected. “It was a deliberate decision, but Bradford were quicker, hungrier and more clinical. They earned their victory. For us, it’s about moving forward and making sure we’re prepared for West Brom.”
The defeat brought an end to Stoke’s flawless start to the season, though Robins emphasised that resting key players had always been part of the plan. Sorba Thomas, Million Manhoef and Lewis Baker all remained on the bench, while others were handed valuable minutes.
Bradford, fresh from eliminating Blackburn in the previous round, claimed another Championship scalp thanks to goals from Will Swan, Brad Halliday and George Lapslie.
Robins was quick to draw a line under the disappointment. “We’ve got a massive game back at the bet365 this weekend, and that’s where the focus has to be. We need a strong response and to remind our supporters of the levels we’ve shown in the league already.”
The Potters face West Brom in Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off, determined to bounce back quickly and keep their promotion challenge on track.
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