'A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION' FOR STEVE

NEW BOSS Steven Schumacher expressed his plea sure, despite his Stoke career beginning with a goalless home draw against Millwall.

- Charlie Gregory

The 39-year-old ended a four-year association with Plymouth to make the move to the Midlands on Tuesday.

And his introduction to the Potters faithful was promising, albeit frustrating as the Potters failed to make their dominance count.

Stoke are now winless in nine games dating back to October, with only one goal scored at home in their last five outings.

M i l l w a l l , on the other hand, had scored only three first-half goals in the past six games, and the visitors continued to struggle in front of goal.

Jake Cooper’s untroubling header in stoppage time proved to be the Lions’ solitary effort on goal in a tame opening period.

Schumacher’s halftime instructions prompted a response from his new side as Stoke took control of the tie after the restart.