Stoke - Newcastle

Britannia Stadium

Stoke (4-4-2): Begovic; Wilkinson, Shawcross, Upson, WIlson; Etherington, Whitehead, Whelan, Delap; Walters, Crouch.

Out: Fuller (Achilles), Higginbotham, Sidibe (both knee).

Newcastle (4-4-2): Krul; Simpson, Coloccini, S Taylor, R Taylor; Gutierrez, Tiote, Cabaye, Obertan; Ba, Best.
Out: Sh Ameobi, Smith (both hamstring), Williamson (ankle).
Test: S Taylor (broken nose), Tioti (knee).

Two teams who have impressed against most expectations -- outside of Stoke and Newcastle, that is -- meet in a fascinating Britannia battle.

Newcastle have not lost in the league in their last 12 games, a run that goes back to May Day.

Stoke appear to be in a slow decline, with three defeats from their last four league games, so Tony Pulis will not need reminding the importance of beating Newcastle where they have already won against Liverpool and held Chelsea and Manchester United to draws.

Predicition: X (2/10)

both team to score (5/10)