Stoke City’s Eric Bocat Praises Team Environment and Quick Adaptation

Stoke City full-back Eric Bocat, a French player, has stated his rapid adaptation to English football. Having joined the Potters during the summer, he has since commenced 10 matches in the Championship. Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke, Bocat indicated that his experience in the Potteries region has met his expectations. “I enjoy being here every week with the coaching staff and the people who works that we don’t see. I think everyone is great here, I enjoy every day.” Since his transfer from the Belgium Pro League team St. Truiden, Bocat has served under two head coaches. Initially signed by Steven Schumacher, he has subsequently needed to re-establish his position within the squad, as current Catalan coach Narcís Pèlach is rotating starts between the 25-year-old Bocat and veteran defender Enda Stevens. “It’s a good competition between us a healthy competition because we are teammates at the end of the day and we are here to push each other.” Stoke has experienced only one defeat in their most recent eight fixtures. Heading into the international break, the team has accumulated seven points from a possible nine, securing victories against Derby County and Blackburn Rovers, and most recently, a home draw against Millwall. The French defender expressed his belief that team morale is elevated and that his new squad is beginning to achieve a degree of consistency. “The team will have to play the top of the table and have to build momentum, this week was the perfect example, it’s good for the confidence and good for the club and team.”