Stoke City Bolster Options, but Lose Huth to Menengitis

It's been a busy few days at the Britannia Stadium for Stock City FC. First their star center back (and sometimes right fullback) Robert Huth went to the hospital with a "mystery illness". It turns out that he is "suffering from viral meningitis" but will surely miss the opening of the 2012 Premier League season.

Encouraging News About Huth

Further tests on the German international defender have revealed that he is suffering from viral meningitis, which is the milder form of the illness.

The 27-year-old will remain in hospital for the next few days while he completes a course of antibiotics, but he is progressing well in his recovery.

Although it is too early to predict the length of Huth’s absence, it is likely to be at least two weeks before he is available to return to action.

Huth has been a fantasy favorite for his knack of scoring goals and taking the occasional free kick. He's been discussed as a difference maker in the official game, for those manager looking to diversify from the top clubs. This will put a hold on that option as it remains to be seen when he'll be recovered, and recover his match fitness.

Following up on that, Stoke have made two signings. They've found cover for the center of defense (how timely) and indeed across midfield as well with American Geoff Cameron.

Cameron Granted Work Permit

STOKE CITY have been given the go-ahead to complete the signing of American international Geoff Cameron from Houston Dynamo.

The Club were successful with their appeal to obtain a work permit for the 27-year-old utility player at a hearing in Manchester on Wednesday.

Cameron is a good player, and I like the signing. He'll be a good option for Tony Pulis, without having too much pressure on his shoulders as he learns how to play at the highest levels.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, Stoke have signed electric winger Michael Kightly from relegated Wolves.

Kightly Seals Move

STOKE CITY have today secured the capture of Michael Kightly from Wolverhampton Wanderers for an undisclosed fee.

The 26-year-old midfielder put pen-to-paper to seal the transfer after agreeing personal terms and completing a medical. Kightly makes the short move across Staffordshire to the Britannia Stadium to provide more competition in wide positions within manager Tony Pulis’ squad as the Club prepares for a fifth season in the Premier League.

I love this move for Stoke. Towards the end of last season, Pulis had clearly lost faith in Jermaine Pennant. And in truth, at this point in his career, who hasn't? Now he has Kightly coming in, having finally shaken off years of injury trouble at Wolves. He's fast, direct, and will give Stoke the balance they need opposite Matty Etherington on the left. He's an ideal player for Pulis' system and I'm thinking that he could be a real fantasy option for the upcoming season.