Stoke City are set to announce that Alex Neil has been appointed as their new manager, according to talkSPORT.

Neil is currently in charge of Preston North End and has guided the Lilywhites up to second in the Championship after an impressive start to this year’s league campaign.

Stoke have been without a manager since they sacked Nathan Jones on Friday, which came somewhat as a surprise as the Potters had shown improvement in recent weeks under his management.

They’re currently sat bottom of the Championship table after Barnsley’s draw with Bristol City on Friday.

But Stoke have evidently wasted no time in finding Jones’ replacement as they look set to appoint Neil as their new boss.

The Potters will be hoping that he can be the manager to turn their dismal start to the season around at the earliest of opportunities.

They’ve kept the majority of their squad together from the Premier League, so it’s clear to see why a change in manager was needed heading towards the potentially season-defining festive period.

Stoke are in action on Monday against league leaders West Brom although it remains to be seen as to whether Neil will be in the dugout for that game.

Preston will be hoping that Neil’s seemingly imminent exit doesn’t derail heir promotion bid too much, and the Deepdale faithful will surely be fearing the worst.

The Verdict:

This is a real coup for Stoke.

Neil has done an excellent job with Preston and I am stunned that he is willing to walk away from the managerial post with the Lilywhites.

Stoke need results quickly and I’m sure that Neil can be the manager to turn their fortunes around in the near future.