Alex Neil could not hide his delight, as he spoke about Ki-Jana Hoever after Stoke City’s win over Burton Albion.
The Dutch defender is back with the Potters for a second loan spell for 2023/24.
Hoever spent the second half of last season on loan at the Championship outfit.
He wasn’t playing at PSV Eindhoven and so, Wolves facilitated a fresh move for him.
And Hoever did well at Stoke, making 17 appearances and chipping in with an impressive four goals.
Perhaps then, it was always a strong possibility that he would be heading back there for 2023/24.
It was maybe just a case of what kind of basis on which he would join.
Wolves have decided to loan Hoever not sell him, and Potters manager Neil is just delighted to have him back.
Alex Neil praises Ki-Jana Hoever after win over Burton
Stoke City ran out 1-0 winners over Burton Albion in a pre-season friendly on Tuesday.
And Hoever started the game, with his Wolves teammate Chiquinho starting ahead of him. The pair both got 45 minutes.
And Hoever impressed, with Neil really pleased with him after the game. He told stokcityfc.com: “Yeah he’s top isn’t he? I thought he was outstanding.
“Really pleased to have him back. I think this year he’ll be even better than he was last year. I think we can see he’s playing with a confidence and swagger. His athleticism is top. Yeah, quality player.”
Wolves have reportedly included a recall clause in Hoever’s loan deal.
Although officials will surely be hoping that he can stay where he is now for a full season so that he can develop.
Hoever seems set for a productive season
For the first time in his career, Hoever could well be a regular starter for his side.
Neil seems to really like him.
He praised him a few times last season during the player’s first loan spell, and seemed to suggest that there is a misconception about Hoever, following Bruno Lage’s infamous post-match press conference when he took aim at the 21-year-old.
It sounds as though Hoever stands to be the regular pick at right-back/right wing-back, which is good.
Semedo will turn 30 in November and will only have one year left on his contract next summer so, there is potential scope for Hoever to return and replace him.