Stoke’s Dragons staking claim for Euro spots despite relegation worries
SAM VOKES is hoping that Stoke’s relegation dogfight does not ruin Wales’ Euro 2020 chances.
The Potters’ trio of Wales internationals Joe Allen, James Chester and Vokes all started at Kenilworth Road, while Dragons’ understudy goalkeeper Adam Davies was on the bench.
Vokes though faces strong competition from fellow striker Tyrese Campbell to nail down a place in Michael O’Neill’s side.
And he did himself no harm against Luton, with a sharp finish to give Stoke a ninth-minute lead.
Majestic midfielder Allen ran the show against their fellow strugglers but injury-plagued defender Chester, on-loan from Aston Villa, blotted his copybook after a fine first 88 minutes by conceding a last-gasp penalty.
Hatters skipper James Collins sent Jack Butland the wrong way with the spot-kick to drag Stoke back into dangerous waters.
And Vokes said: “We need to put teams to the sword and score that second and third goal to see games out, but we let teams back in it when we’re just a goal up.
“I’m always proud to play for Wales, and it’s important that your club football gives you that chance to play for them.
“You want to be playing football, and that was a big reason for me moving here, but there’s a lot of competition in the squad so it’s important to take your chance when you get it.
“There are two big games coming up with the Euros around the corner. They are both at home and a chance for everyone to stake their claim for the summer.
“Chester has been a huge player for Wales over the years but he hasn’t been in the last couple of squads. But he’s a great player and getting football now will help him with his chances.”
Collins, 29, is hoping for a place in the Republic of Ireland squad, having scored 11 league goals for basement boys Luton this term.
“I didn’t think we deserved anything from the game,” he said. “But I had an inkling of where their keeper would be going. I always practice my penalties and it’s a good job because it paid off.”
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