This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Stoke City have endured a very mediocre start to the season, with the Potters rooted to the bottom of the Championship table, with only one point to show from four rounds of league matches.

For Potters manager Nathan Jones, the pressure is now really on, ahead of the small matter of hosting league leaders Leeds United at the Bet365 Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

So is it realistic to suggest that Jones is one defeat away from the sack at Stoke?

We discuss........

Sam Rourke

"I really fear for him.

"Since arriving at Stoke City, Jones has struggled to really implement his philosophies and emulate the successes he showcased whilst in charge of Luton Town.

"Though, you do have to feel for him in some way, as he has been left with a number of players who seemingly don't really want to be plying their trade in the second tier.

"Ultimately, football is a results business and Jones really isn't delivering so far, and he needs to get a win on the board ASAP to instil some confidence in the Potters' faithful.

"It's perhaps harsh if Leeds was his last game in charge of Stoke this weekend, as Marcelo Bielsa's Whites are one of the top teams in the division, so another chance after the Leeds game would surely be the best option.

"But he's on thin ice, and needs results quick.

Ned Holmes

“I think he may be safe this week given they’re facing a top-of-the-table Leeds United side but he needs to turn things around soon.

“Things are certainly looking bleak for Jones at Stoke after a rocky start to the season and if it continues I can’t see him lasting too long.

“He failed to improve the side’s league position after joining in January last season but he deserved at least one full transfer window.

“After a summer in which the Potters have been busy in the transfer market to allow Jones to mould his squad I think the club’s patience may be wearing thin.”

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Josh Cole

“In all honesty, it looks as if it is only a matter of time before Stoke cut ties with Jones as the 46-year-old has ultimately failed to deliver the goods since arriving from Luton Town earlier this year.

“Having only been able to pick up three victories in the Championship during his time in charge of the Potters, Jones clearly needs a positive result quickly as his position is looking increasingly untenable.

“Therefore, anything other than three points against league leaders Leeds United on Saturday could “result in the end of his reign at the bet365 Stadium.

"Whereas Jones should rightfully take most of the blame for Stoke’s poor form, it is also worth noting that the club’s players have not exactly covered themselves in glory either and thus will need to pick up their performance levels if a new manager comes in.”