Stoke v Blackburn

This has become a huge game for both teams with Blackburn as desperate for three points as ever, while Stoke have lost four on the spin in the Premier League. I think quality will tell; the hosts are 2/1 (Bet365) to be the only goalscorers at the Brittania Stadium.

Nobody was expecting the Potters’ sudden slump in form but we can be confident that Tony Pulis will put a stop to it sooner rather than later. After the defeat to QPR, the Stoke manager said: “The disappointment is that we are conceding goals, and soft goals. We are going to have to get back to basics.” This tells me that this week’s training has been all about defence, defence, defence. A clean sheet will be demanded on Saturday.

The team news bodes well for that prospect. Jonathan Woodgate looks set to return from a calf problem and he can add steel and experience at centre back. Ball-winning midfielder Wilson Palacios has also recovered from a knee injury, and should make a first league start for his new club.

In contrast, Blackburn will miss the creative spark afforded by David Dunn - the midfielder is suspended following his sending off at Wigan. With captain Christopher Samba and Ryan Nelson still likely to be absent, a first clean sheet in 16 games for Rovers isn’t on the cards.

The recent troubles for Stoke shouldn’t disguise the fact that the Britannia Stadium has been a fortress for the last year or so. Before the disappointing matches against Newcastle and QPR, the Potters had conceded just one league goal in four home outings.

This ought to be the perfect opportunity for the hosts to return to form; Steve Kean is under intense pressure because of the run of three wins in 26 top flight appearances. Back Stoke to win with a clean sheet at best odds of 2/1 with Bet365.