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Stoke City Football Club, founded in 1863 as Stoke Ramblers, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest professional football clubs in England. Rooted in the pottery heartland of Stoke-on-Trent, the club has been a fixture in the English game for well over a century. After merging with Stoke Victoria Athletic in 1878, they became simply Stoke, and later took on the name Stoke City in 1925 following the local area’s receipt of city status. Over the decades, the club’s fortunes have waxed and waned, featuring spells in the top flight and notable cup runs, including their famous League Cup triumph in 1972. Traditionally wearing red and white striped shirts, Stoke City built a reputation for resolute, hard-working football. Matches at their home ground, initially the Victoria Ground and later the bet365 Stadium, have earned a reputation as fierce, atmospheric contests. Stoke City’s rich heritage underscores their enduring presence in English football.