With the amount of money Aston Villa spent this summer, Scott Hogan was never going to get a chance at the club this season. He instead opted for a loan move to Stoke City, where he should get plenty of playing time.
He made his home debut for the club today, starting up front alongside Lee Gregory against Derby County. He was joined in the starting lineup by compatriot James McClean, while 18-year old Nathan Collins was amongst the substitutes.
Stoke took the lead in the 32nd minute, and while the goal was originally accredited to Liam Lindsey, replays showed the ball hit off Hogan's back before crossing the line.
Stoke have tweeted to confirm this was Hogan's goal, his first for the club.
There was no doubt about his second of the game, as he powered a cross from the right flank into the roof of the net.
Hogan has been included in the provisional squad for Ireland's games against Switzerland and Bulgaria next month, and he would have done his chances of making the final list no harm this afternoon.
He started in the win over Gibraltar in June, and he will be hoping to see plenty more playing time over the remainder of the qualification campaign. For an Irish team lacking goals, he could be an asset in the coming months.
