It’s the Potters versus the Tractor Boys this Saturday and Stoke are keen to be the first team this season to take away three points from Portman Road where Ipswich have collected a respectable 35 out of a possible 39 points – it’s just a shame that the away performances have been equally dramatic – no wins and just four draws, prompting fans to ask Santa for another team to play away to match the home team’s performance.
Vital Quotes:
Stoke striker cum midfielder, Richard Cresswell doesn’t think there is any reason why the Potters can’t win: ‘Their home run has to end sometime, so why can’t it be us that does it?’
Ipswich Town Team News:
Jason de Vos is fit again, Owen Garvin has been struck down with flu and Liam Trotter is suspended after picking up an unlucky red card in last weekend’s FA Cup defeat against Portsmouth.
Player to watch: Pablo Counago
The Spanish striker has scored 10 goals this season. He’s in his second spell at the club after scoring 34 goals in 122 appearances between 2001-5 before a two year break playing for Malaga.
Stoke City Team News:
Mamady Sidibe is unavailable after leaving for Ghana to play in the African Cup of Nations and Rory Delap is doubtful after missing training this week with a thigh problem which may provide an opportunity for Salif Diao to have his first match since signing last month. Tony Pulis has a difficult choice in defence as he decides whether to stick to the same back four who played well against Newcastle or if he allows Andy Griffin his first start since signing from Derby.
Player to watch: Richard Cresswell
Cresswell is hoping that with Big Mama away he will be allowed his second start of the season alongside Ricardo Fuller, if not it’s likely that Jon Parkin will start up front and Cresswell will have to be content with a midfield slot.
Match Facts & Stats
Ref Watch:
Keith Stroud is officating and has an average of 3 yellows cards per game all season, so Ric will need to keep his cool.
Next Fixtures:
Wed 16th Jan: Newcastle (away – FA Cup replay) kick-off: 7.45pm
Sat 19th Jan: Preston (home) kick-off: 3pm
Tue 29th Jan: Charlton (away) kick-off: 7.45pm
