Republic of Ireland striker Tom Cannon joins Stoke City on loan

Stoke City have completed the signing of Leicester City striker Tom Cannon on a season-long loan.

Cannon, who also represents the Republic of Ireland at the international level, impressed during a temporary stint at Preston North End in the second half of the 2022/23 season, where he scored eight goals in 20 appearances.

Cannon joined Leicester City last summer after making a permanent move from Everton.

Stoke City Sporting Director Jonathan Walters expressed his excitement about the new addition, saying, "It's no exaggeration to say that most clubs in the Championship wanted to sign Tom this summer, so it's a huge vote of confidence that he has opted for Stoke City."

Walters emphasised Cannon's belief in the team's potential, noting, "His arrival is testament to his faith in the squad we are building and in the way he believes we can develop him as a footballer, and I can't wait to see him representing our club on the field."

Walters also highlighted the club's recent efforts to strengthen their squad, stating, "With the signings we have made this summer adding to the attacking quality we already had in the building, we believe we now have the firepower to climb the table and enjoy a successful campaign."

Cannon, enthusiastic about his new challenge, expressed his excitement to join Stoke City.

"Stoke City is a massive club, with an exciting young team, and I’m absolutely delighted to be joining," he said.

The striker also acknowledged the warm welcome he has received from the club's supporters, adding, "I’ve had loads of messages from the supporters. I’m feeling the love from them already and being appreciated at a club is massive."

Cannon is eager to make an impact on the pitch and repay the fans' faith in him.

"I’m hoping I can get off the mark as soon as possible and repay them with goals," he stated.

"What they will see is me working my socks off and being up for it, and when I get an opportunity, I can put it away."

Cannon is one of a number of Irish players on the books at Stoke City now including Enda Stevens, Jack Bonham, Bosun Lawal and Andrew Moran. 

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