Stoke face the might of the newly crowned World Champions in a mouth watering fixture at the Brit on Boxing Day.
As well as attracting Sky TV, it’s been sold-out for several weeks as Stoke fans look forward to it with a mixture of apprehension and anticipation. After all, we know it’s going to be difficult, coming on the back of the recent 5-0 defeat at Old Trafford, but these are the games that we dreamt of when we gained promotion back in May.
Vital Quotes:
Tony Pulis told the BBC: ‘We’ll get 28,000 people there, the place will be rocking and I’m just delighted for everybody in the city – it’s good times.
‘We’ll expect a tough game – we know what they’re like and what players they’ve got. Whichever team Sir Alex Ferguson picks, they’re full of quality.
‘If we work hard enough and we have a good slice of luck on the day then you never know what might happen.’
Stoke City Team News:
It’s all hands to the pump as Dave Kitson, Salif Diao, Andy Griffin and Leon Cort are all still doubtful, but Thomas Sorensen is hopeful of a quick return after damaging a bone in his hand last weekend. Mamady Sidibe is out for another month at least but Liam Lawrence just might be fit enough for the bench.
Player to watch: Danny Higginbotham
The former Manchester United academy player will hopefully be playing far better than in the past couple of games. A solid defence is an absolute must if we’re going to stand any chance of getting anything from this match
Man United Team News:
The World Champions have only just arrived back from the final of the club world championships in Japan, seemingly without any injuries, but hopefully a bit jaded.
Player to watch: Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo is a man who needs no introduction. We just need to keep a good eye on him.
Match Facts & Stats
This is the Reds’ first visit to the Brit.
Ref Watch:
Chris Foy
Next Fixtures:
Sunday 28th December: West Ham (away) kick-off: 2pm
Saturday 3rd January: Hartlepool (away) kick-off: 3pm (FA Cup)
Saturday 10th January: Liverpool (home) kick-off: 5.30pm (Setanta TV)
