Josh Maja Scores On Stoke City Debut, Promises More Goals

Josh Maja scored on his debut as Stoke City secured their place in the fifth round of the Emirates FA Cup courtesy of a comfortable 2-0 win over Wigan Athletic.

The Nigerian who only completed his loan switch from Ligue 1 side, Bordeaux to Championship side, Stoke City on transfer deadline day scored on 14 minutes offf a Tyrese Campbell assist.

It was his first ever goal in the competition on his ffith attempt after firing blanks for Sunderland in four apperances in the past.

“I am just please to get a positive result and obviously get off the mark with my first goal for the club,” the 23-year-old said following the game.

“It is huge for my confidence because you always want to settle straight away when you move to a new club, so to get the goal on my first appearance is a real positive for me.

“I said when I signed that when I am given consistent opportunities then I will score goals – I truly believe that.

“I have proven that in the past too, and now I want to show that here, so scoring on game one for me, is a perfect start.”

Maja provided a real focal point as part of a lively and dangerous front four that also included Tyrese Campbell, Nick Powell and D’Margio Wright-Phillips.

With the quality and the talents that three of those possess, together with the those of the likes of Jaden Philogene-Bidace and Jacob Brown, it is clear as to why Maja is licking his lips.

“There is so much quality here – I am really excited about the group that we have,” he added.

“I have had a few days training with the lads now and the quality is there for all to see – we really do have a talented group.

“We have good strength in depth in the forward positions, we are all of a really good age and we will all push each other on now.

“We will keep learning and developing and I am sure we will only get stronger and build an even better dynamic the longer we work together, and get to know each others games.”