Stoke vs Owls preview

Two former Potters' players make a return to the Brit with the Owls desperate for points as they languish just one place off the foot of the table. In contrast, the Potters are riding high in 5th place with only one defeat this season. A win should push Stoke even higher up the table.

Potters' coach, Mark O'Connor told the official site that he expects Wednesday to be a hard game: 'Sheffield Wednesday are a good team and we've had them watched, but we expect to win every home game no matter who comes here.

'Last year they came here and I thought they were the best team we played here last year, they beat us 2-1 over the Christmas period and showed good energy and passion. This is a tough game, no two ways about it.'

The two week break has allowed Zakuani, Delap, Dickinson and Wilkinson extra time to recover and all should be available for selection. Even long-term absentees, Marlon Broomes and Lewis Buxton are deemed fit enough for possible selection. The only players definitely out are Mama Sidibe (injured in rioting after the Mali international) and Clint Hill (fractured ribs). Vincent Pericard may be available if the authorities release him from prison in time....

Who can fail to be impressed by the young Manchester United defender who we've got on loan until Christmas. Definitely a future Premier League star, so unlikely to be a long term player at the Brit, but at least we're getting the benefit at the moment.

Graham Kavanagh and Dion Burton, both former Potters, make a return to the Brit.

Even though the Owls have splashed out £1m to sign Jeffers from Blackburn Rovers, the striker has only managed one goal for his new club so far this season.

Tue 23rd Oct: Crystal Palace (away) kick-off: 7.45pm
Sat 27th Oct: Bristol City (away) kick-off: 3pm
Sat 3rd Nov: Coventry City (home) kick-off:3pm

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