Former Blackpool boss Ian Holloway has admitted he is worried for Stoke City after they suffered a third defeat in four against Preston last night.

Two notable errors from keeper Jack Butland gave North End a two-goal lead at the break before Josh Harrop sealed the points with a third, although James McClean pulled one back late on.

Nevertheless, it was a very disappointing night for the Potters and Holloway told the EFL on Quest show that there seems to be a lot of problems for the Staffordshire club.

"There is something wrong, there’s too many mistakes, not just the goal keeper. It did not happen for Gary Rowett, it didn’t happen for Jonesy, they seem unhappy, it’s real tough to turn that around."

"It always ends in tears because the manager is the one with contract, that you can get rid of. You can’t get rid of some of these players, who really should be pulling their sleeves up."

Things don't get any easier for the former Luton boss as Stoke face league leaders Leeds United at home this weekend.

The Verdict

You have to agree with Holloway's comments here as Stoke look to be in a really tough position right now and it's not what was expected after a summer of change.

Unfortunately, as he alludes too, the buck always stops with the manager and Jones will be aware that he could get sacked if he can't improve results pretty quickly.

However, the fact Stoke have been poor for a few years now suggests the problems do run deeper and it must be a frustrating time to be a fan.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.

Fans can watch EFL on Quest’s flagship show each Saturday from 9pm with midweek shows throughout the season on EFL matchdays. Quest is available on Freeview channel 12, Freesat channel 167, Sky channel 144 and Virgin channel 217 while fans can catch up on the show on-demand via QuestOD.co.uk.