Stoke v Cardiff preview

Posted Saturday, January 08, 2011 by skysports.com

Stoke face a tough test in the FA Cup third round on Saturday as they host Cardiff.

The Welsh side have their sights set firmly on promotion to the Premier League this season and come into the game second in the Championship table.

The Bluebirds claimed a crucial 2-1 home win over promotion rivals Leeds on Tuesday night, although they had won just one of their previous seven games.

Stoke ran Premier League leaders Manchester United close for the second time this season on Tuesday night, going down to a 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford.

That rounded off a mixed run of two wins and two defeats for the Potters over the festive period but they remain just inside the top half of the Premier League.

Team news

Stoke manager Tony Pulis has no new injury worries, with striker Mamady Sidibe (Achilles) their only absentee.

Pulis has pledged to send out a strong side but fringe players such as Tuncay Sanli, Glenn Whelan and Marc Wilson may be given a start.

Cardiff boss Dave Jones will again assess his injury-hit squad as late as possible and his main concerns are up front, with Jay Bothroyd (hamstring), Michael Chopra (ankle), Craig Bellamy (ongoing knee problem) and new signing Jon Parkin (knee) all to be checked.

Parkin is still to make his debut having arrived from Preston with a slight strain but he will be desperate to be involved against another of his former clubs.

Midfielder Jason Koumas will also be monitored while defender Chris Riggott (hamstring) is the only definite absentee.