Birmingham vs Stoke preview

A week on from the Premier League goal-fest we make the trip to Birmingham. Brum earned a vital win in the relegation battle at Upton Park with a goal courtesy of a one-time Stoke transfer target, Nikola Zigic.

The voice of caution has again been heard as Tony Pulis attempts to rein in any thoughts of safety ahead of what looks like a very close run-in to the end of the season. He told the official site: 'We are in a fantastic position to have an excellent season, but all that concerns me at the moment is getting another seven points,' he said.

'Once we have got to that point, then we can set our sights on improving upon last season's performance, but people need to keep things in perspective and remember where we have come from in such a short space of time.

'We need to push on steadily, but there are some who are getting carried away with their expectations, and that is frustrating.'

Former Potter, Ben Foster is fit after pulling out of the England squad in midweek with a thumb injury. New signing Obafemi Martins could be in line for his debut after being granted a work permit.

Even Ryan Shawcross will have his work cut out to dominate the 6'7" striker.

TP should be able to name the same eleven that started against Sunderland last week. Ricardo Fuller is back from attending a family funeral in Jamaica but is likely to start on the bench with Jones and Carew continuing up front.

Was awesome last week with his two late free-kicks earning the Potters a vital win.

Mark Halsey

Saturday 19th February: Brighton kick-off: 3pm (home) FA Cup

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