Stoke City’s Bosun Lawal called up to Ireland squad for Luxembourg friendly
Heimir Hallgrímsson has called up Stoke City defender Bosun Lawal for the second of Ireland’s two friendlies during the current international window.
The 22-year-old centre-back, who can also fill in as a defensive midfielder, made seven Championship appearances for Stoke City this season following his move from Celtic B last summer.
He also featured five times in Premier League 2 and made one appearance in the FA Cup.
Lawal has earned 20 caps at underage level for Ireland, recording one goal and one assist
A product of the St Kevin’s Boys academy, he received a senior call-up for Ireland’s 2-1 win over Hungary last June, though he didn’t feature in the match.
Lawal is not replacing anyone in the current squad. Instead, the group has been expanded from 23 to 24 players.
Terriers Bid Farewell As Sorba Thomas Joins Stoke City
Huddersfield Town have confirmed the departure of winger Sorba Thomas, who has completed a permanent move to Stoke City. The Wales international joins the Potters on a three-year deal following a productive spell at the John Smith’s Stadium.
Wales international Sorba Thomas has completed a permanent transfer to Stoke City,, signing a three-year contract with the Championship club after leaving Huddersfield Town. The move marks an exciting new chapter for the 26-year-old winger.
Stoke’s Sporting Director, Jonathan Walters, praised Thomas as a “strong physical profile” who excels off the ball and delivers excellent service into the box—a key addition to finalize their summer recruitment strategy.
Born in Barking to Sierra Leonean and Welsh parents, Thomas began his senior career at non-league Boreham Wood before making a breakthrough at Huddersfield Town in January 2021 . He quickly became influential, notably setting up 12 Championship assists in the 2021–22 season, helping Huddersfield reach the playoff final.
Loan spells followed—first with Blackburn Rovers, then Nantes in Ligue 1. While Nantes opted not to sign him permanently, the experience added valuable experience ahead of his move to Stoke.
After 125 appearances, 7 goals, and 31 assists for Huddersfield, Thomas departs having made a notable impact. Manager Lee Grant acknowledged the deal benefits all parties: “Stoke City have presented the club with a generous offer… the player has shown desire to pursue that opportunity… The earlier we can have our squad settled, the better.”
Thomas registered 31 assists during his time with Huddersfield Town, including 9 in the 2021/22 season alone — the third-most in the Championship that year. His delivery from corners and wide areas consistently ranks among the league’s most dangerous, with high expected assists (xA) per 90 metrics highlighting his crossing threat.
