This weekend`s fixture sees Stoke City take on Manchester City at the Britannia Stadium. Man City have never won at the Brit in the Premier League, with the last four league fixtures between the two teams ending 1-1 when played on Stoke soil.
The international break is over and it`s safe to say that no England fan particularly enjoyed it. It`s even safer to say that fans of Stoke City have been relishing the chance to see some of their new signings in action. The arrival of Marco Arnautovic in the early hours of deadline day has excited even the most sceptic of fans.
Arnautovic arrives with a temperament that is only rivalled by the Balotellis` and Ibrahimovics` of the world. Arnautovic can operate on the wings or up front and his adaptability will be at Mark Hughes` disposal. ‘Arnie` has got the talent but has often lacked the maturity to fulfil his potential, but many are hoping that will change as he prepares to don the number ten for Stoke City.
Manchester City look a shadow of their former selves without the presence of skipper Vincent Kompany, who is absent for the clash against Stoke. Kompany holds the team together and you have to wonder how Man City will cope at defending from set pieces on Saturday. If Frazier Campbell can score two headers from corners against Man City then Stoke City are bound to trouble Joe Hart and co. Javi Garcia has been playing as a make-shift centre back in Kompany`s absence and he has done so unconvincingly.
Manchester City have stagnated since their master class vs. Newcastle United on the opening weekend of the season. Their team looks top heavy in the absence of Kompany and a trip to the Britannia is the last thing on their Christmas list. On the other hand, Stoke City`s defence has rediscovered the fine form from the start of last season and the team also looks a lot more threatening in attack. I expect a packed midfield from both teams with Stoke`s best opportunities to come from set pieces. Manchester City will rely on Jesus Navas to stretch Stoke`s solid defence so Erik Pieters will have to make sure that he is on top form to ensure that the crosses intended for Edin Dzeko are kept to a minimum.
Stoke City Team News:
Charlie Adam and Glenn Whelan are doubts for the game. Marco Arnautovic and Stephen Ireland could make their debuts.
Player to watch: Asmir Begovic
This may become a regular occurrence. The Bosnian was redundant in the game against West Ham but something tells me that his fellow countryman Edin Dzeko might cause a ruckus on Saturday. A repeat performance of the season opener at Anfield would be lovely, please Asmir.
Manchester City Team News:
David Silva, Vincent Kompany and Martin Demichelis are all unavailable for Manchester City.
Player to watch: Yaya Toure
He is dangerous whether he is playing in the deeper role alongside Fernandinho or pushing further up to fill the absence left by David Silva`s recent injury. He is a constant thorn in Stoke City`s side and he could be Steven N`Zonzi`s toughest test yet.
Match Facts & Stats
Stoke City have averaged 52 defensive actions in each game so far this season.
Manchester City, on the other hand, have only averaged 40 defensive actions in each game so far this season.
Both teams have scored 2 goals each from set-pieces this season. That figure includes one direct free-kick each, scored by Jermaine Pennant and Yaya Toure, respectively.
Stoke City have created 30 chances this season. Manchester City have created 42.
Ref Watch:
Mark Clattenburg— The card happy clown is back in town. He has issued 535 yellow cards in 188 games.
Match Prediction:
I don`t know if I’ve got Jermaine Pennant fever or if I`m love struck with Mark Hughes. Either way, Vincent Kompany is out, Joe Hart is flailing recently so a smash and grab for the Potters is the only option.
Next Fixtures:
Stoke City face Norwich at The Britannia, whilst Manchester City face their bitter rivals Manchester United at the Etihad. Both games will take place on 22/09/2013 and are live on Sky.
