All the Stokies will be on the look-out for the big Trinidadian, Kenwyne Jones as the Potters kick off the new season with the short trip to Wolverhampton, but it was the Turkish international, Tuncay that has excelled the most during pre-season with five goals under his belt and he’ll be upset if he’s not given a starting position so it’ll be interesting to see how Tony Pulis sets out his stall for this first match.
Vital Quotes:
One-time Stoke loan defender, Jody Craddock thinks that he is up to the task of marking Jones:
‘Making his debut, he’s going to want to make a quick impression and I’m going to have to be at my best against him.’
Wolves Team News:
Wolves have spent big over the summer with a massive £18m committed on new players. It remains to be seen if they’ve spent wisely with five players coming in – two from Europe and three from relegated clubs.
Player to watch: Kevin Doyle
Doyle scored nine goals last season and capped it with the club’s player of the season award, but is officially classified as a doubt as he’s struggling with a calf injury
Stoke City Team News:
Niggling pre-season injuries mean that Abdoulaye Faye and Liam Lawrence may be left out whilst Glenn Whelan is another who is struggling. The choice in midfield and defence should create no surprises but, if Jones starts, will the boss choose Fuller, Sidibe or Tuncay to start up front?
Player to watch: Kenwyne Jones
Pulis has said that Jones isn’t up to the fitness level of the rest of the squad and that he’ll have to treat him with care to start with, but the fans will be keen to get their first glimpse of the star signing in a Stoke shirt for the first time since 2005.
Match Facts & Stats
Tomorrow’s game must be better than last season’s bore 0-0 draw at Molineux, but it could be another close game.
Ref Watch:
Lee Probert
Next Fixtures:
Saturday 21st August: Spurs (home) kick-off: 3pm
