Stoke City to make late decisions on duo's involvment against Middlesbrough as third player is added to long-term casualty list

Stoke City boss Michael O’Neill will make late decisions over Josh Tymon and Josh Laurent ahead of Wednesday night’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Middlesbrough.

Defender Tymon and midfielder Laurent played through Saturday’s 3-1 defeat at Huddersfield Town with ankle problems and are being assessed.

However, wing-back Harry Clarke could be out for up to six weeks with a stress facture of the shin.

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The Arsenal loanee has been added to an casualty list which already includes Nick Powell and Harry Souttar, who are both working their way back from knee injuries.

Stoke City manager Michael O'Neill. Picture: Getty Images.Stoke City manager Michael O'Neill. Picture: Getty Images.
Stoke City manager Michael O'Neill. Picture: Getty Images.

O’Neill’s squad, however, has been boosted by the arrival of an eighth summer signing following the capture on a season-long loan deal of Brentford midfielder Tariqe Fosu.

The Ghanaian international joines Aden Flint, Josh Laurent, Harry Clarke, Liam McCarron, Gavin Kilkenny, Dwight Gayle and Will Smallbone on signing for O'Neill's side this summer.

The versatile 26-year-old, who can play at wing-back on both flanks and in attacking midfield, said: “I’m very delighted, it’s a massive club you know, they play good football and there are some good players so hopefully I can add to the team,” Fosu told Stoke City+.

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“I want to get some games, show people what I’m about and hopefully I can help the boys have a good year. I’m a tricky, energetic player. I like to score goals and get assists as well. It’s been a while but I’m excited to get back on the pitch and perform in front of the supporters.”

Middlesbrough manager Chris Wilder hopes to have midfielder Matt Crooks available for the trip the the bet365 Stadium. Crooks missed Sunday’s 2-2 home draw with Sheffield United through illness but is expected to travel to the Potteries.