Stoke City: Evolution?

by Adam Bate

It was no surprise to hear Jon Champion use the term "Neanderthal" to describe the Stoke experience on ESPN at the weekend. After all, when it comes to Stoke City, everyone seems to be� pre-occupied with the notion of evolution.

This time last year, the man often seen as the personification of Stoke's direct approach launched� not a throw-in but a� defence of his club's style.