Lambert Stops The Bleeding

We barely bat an eyelid when Stoke are priced up as 15/1 shots to win, at home, to Manchester City these days but the champions elect aren’t invincible.

I still expect them to collect another three points but backing Man City to win and under 2.5 goals in the match is worth a flutter when Boylesports go as long as 3/1 on that outcome.

The main reason is that Stoke have solidified under Paul Lambert, particularly at the back. The Potters have only conceded 4 goals in his 6 league matches, a stark improvement on 50 in 23 league games before his arrival!

Pep’s boys have also been less sparkling on the road since Christmas. The last 4 away in the top flight have seen draws with Burnley and Palace and a loss at Liverpool.

With Aguero missing this one I think the visitors would happily take a 1-0 or 2-0 triumph and arguably Stoke wouldn’t consider that so bad either as they endeavour to keep their confidence up at the very least.