Stoke City make the trip to South Yorkshire on Saturday as they seek to build on their 1-0 victory over fellow strugglers Burnley last weekend. But they will have their work cut out if they want to come away with the spoils as Leeds are looking for a good run in to grap that second automatic promotion place.
Vital Quotes:
Michael Duberry, talking about his possible mid-week departure on loan to Sheffield United, joked that ‘there is a clause in my contract that I could go if someone offered £3m, but they only offered £2.5m’, adding that ‘I’m not going anywhere and I told the gaffer that’.
He’s looking forward to his first visit to Leeds as Stoke’s captain, but admits that he’s in for a rough ride from the home fans.
Leeds United Team News:
Former Crewe player and one-time Potters’ target, Rob Hulse should be back in the team after breaking his nose against Crystal Palace in midweek. Manager, Kevin Blackwell has brought in Danny Graham on loan from Middlesborough and he could play a part.
Player to watch: Rob Hulse
The influential striker has 12 goals in the Championship under his belt.
Stoke City Team News:
Dave Brammer and Luke Chadwick look as though they may miss the game with flu. Boskamp has promised to give the youngsters a chance in the closing stages of the season and may include Carl Dickinson in the starting line-up.
Player to watch: Michael Duberry
His first visit back to Elland Road since he joined from Leeds in February 2005. He expects the reception to be very vocal and a solid performance from him and the rest of the defence could be the key to us unlocking some points.
Match Facts & Stats
The previous game back in December ended with Stoke being the unlucky losers in a 1-0 defeat.
Ref Watch:
K Stroud was the ref in our FA Cup tie against Walsall earlier this year.
Match Prediction:
It will be very tough against a Leeds team with it all to play for. A draw would be great.
Next Fixtures:
Wed 29th March: QPR (AWAY) Kick-off: 7:45pm
Sat 1st April: Sheffield United (HOME) Kick-off: 3pm
