Stoke vs Bolton preview

Stoke return to the Brit still revelling in a great comeback at Villa Park on Sunday whilst Bolton arrive at the Brit on the back of three wins out of the last four. Their recent away form is not that great (but who are we to judge?) and there is no doubt that there isn’t any rival manager who knows us better than the former Potters’ boss, Gary Megson. Nevertheless the time should be right for the Potters to avenge the opening day 3-0 defeat at the Reebok.

Vital Quotes:

Megson has warned his troops to be on their guard. He told the Trotters’ official site: ‘It has always been a tough place to go to. Not only is the team up for it but so are the crowd, it’s loud and very passionate which can pile the pressure on.’

Stoke City Team News:

Rory Delap is available after serving his three match ban. Both Thomas Sorensen and Abdoulaye Faye should be available again after recovering from injuries. Tony Pulis will have to decide whether he brings Glenn Whelan and Ric Fuller back into the starting eleven after their good performances on Sunday or if he prefers their ‘super sub’ role.

Player to watch: Abdoulaye Faye

Faye will be keen to start against his former club. He spent two seasons at the Reebok before following Sam Allardyce up to St. James Park but he never settled in the wake of Big Sam’s dismissal and decided to try his luck at the Brit where he’s become an instant favourite with the fans and popular stand-in skipper.

Bolton Team News:

A 1-0 victory against the Magpies at the weekend has helped lift the Trotters up the table and they now sit in a seemingly comfortable mid table position.

Player to watch: Kevin Davies

The 31 year old striker has scored 10 goals this season, making this his best tally in the six years that he’s spent at the Reebok.

Match Facts & Stats

Next Fixtures:

Saturday 14th March: Everton (away) kick-off: 3pm