Jese Rodriguez impresses Lambert on return to Stoke training

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Paul Lambert has welcomed the Spaniard’s return and says he could have a lot of football left in a Stoke City shirt.

Jese Rodriguez, 24, has impressed new Stoke City boss Paul Lambert after returning to training following a long period away.

The PSG loanee could play a huge part in Stoke City’s survival chances should Lambert opt to go with the forward if he can rediscover his form.

Jese last featured for Stoke in a defeat against Liverpool in late November and has only appeared nine times for the Potters since his arrival in England.

His only goal remains the winner against Arsenal he scored on his debut, announcing much promise to the Stoke fans which he has not yet fulfilled.

A move back to boyhood club Las Palmas was being rumoured earlier this month. However, after that fell through the Spaniard is back and ready to commit to Stoke until the end of the season.

According to the Sentinel, the 24-year-old has been impressive in training and Lambert has taken quite a fancy to the former Real Madrid man.

“He’s had a bit of time off and is still getting up to match fitness, he knows that himself and has admitted that himself,” said the Scotsman.

“Looking at him in training, he has got a lot to offer. He’s really technical, so he certainly looks a little bit different offensively, and I think it’s important we try and get him up to speed.

“We had a right good talk and he’s been excellent. I know he’s had some personal issues back home in Spain and I totally understand why he wasn’t here.”

Lambert was referring to Jese’s premature baby son who is currently being looked after in Spain, meaning that the forward has experienced quite the disrupted season due to frequent trips back to Madrid.

As a result, it is understandable that he has struggled to find form, yet Lambert sympathises and has been pleased with his work rate.

“He’s been really, really good. I know he’s probably not match fit, but as regards him coming in here and doing his work, he’s been very good,” Lambert added.

“You watch him offensively in training and there’s definitely something there.”