A point from this game will be a good return for us. I still believe Stoke will stay up and, whilst they’re doing ok on the road of late (the point at Villa on Sunday will have given them one hell of a boost), their home form will be crucial. The Britannia Stadium is a tough place to go to at the best of times, never mind when the team are buoyed by a good result and fighting for their lives. I hope Etherington (quality signing) and Abdoulaye Faye (should never have left the Reebok in the first place) don’t play but they’ve still got James Beattie to worry us, especially now that he’s showing that a player of his quality should never have been playing Championship football.
For us – Sunday’s result could prompt Megson to make a couple of changes. Muamba was ineffective and could make way for Ricardo Gardner, though much will depend on whether or not Megson decides to create a midfield ‘wall’ to break up the game? If he does, Muamba will start. If he wants to attack and win the game, Ricardo will get the nod. Andy O’Brien’s impressive display on Sunday should see him retain his place ahead of Puygrenier. Other than that, it should be as you were.
A physical battle, no doubt, but one with a bit more class than people will give both teams credit for. Good luck to Northy’s boys after this one but I hope we can keep up our decent run here.
Predictions? Head says 1-1. Heart says 2-1 Bolton…