Stoke have had a difficult start to the season and things don't get any easier as they host an in-form Leeds.

Nathan Jones continues to struggle at the helm and now has only four wins from 26 matches, but has called on the fans to back his team more than ever.

So far Stoke's only point has come at home, and Jones will be hoping for another similar home performance to that against Derby, which The Potters were unlucky not to win.

Speaking in the Leeds pre-match press conference, Jones told the club's media: "We're all hurting right now, but we believe in our processes. The fans have been brilliant and I can't ask for patience forever but we need them now more than ever."

There have been 10 new arrivals at Stoke over the summer and they are still getting used to the style and methods Jones wishes to implement, but the former Luton boss is running out of time to make an impression.

Leeds will provide tough opposition and are likely to dominate possession, which could lead to frustrations amongst the crowd, hence Jones' call for patience.

The Verdict

Jones remains confident in his own ability and what he and the management is doing, but until that gets results, pressure on him will likely grow.

There were probably some Stoke fans who wanted him out at the end of last season and this dreadful start will not help him at all.

Leeds are a very good side and will be favourites for this match, and if they win then the writing will be on the wall for Jones, whose abysmal record can surely not continue for much longer before the board make a decision.