Tony Pulis looks set to give an immediate debut in goal to new £3.25m signing from Portsmouth Asmir Begovic as his side bid for only their second league win in ten games. Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce could include new arrivals Yildiray Basturk and Amine Linganzi in his plans for the first time as Rovers try to banish their away-day blues at the Britannia Stadium.

Quick Check

Stoke City

  • Goalkeeper Asmir Begovic is in line for his debut after his £3.25m move from Portsmouth.
  • Stoke’s clean sheet against Sunderland on Monday was their first in ten games.
  • Tony Pulis’s side is unbeaten in their last four matches in all competitions.
  • Defender Abdoulaye Faye is battling to overcome a back injury.
  • The Potters have won just one of their last nine Premier League games.
  • Stoke have scored just one goal against Blackburn in their last five meetings.

Blackburn Rovers

  • Yildiray Basturk and Amine Linganzi could make their debuts after joining in midweek.
  • Vince Grella is finally hoping to return after a five-week absence with a thigh injury.
  • Blackburn moved into the table‘s top ten for the first time this season after their draw at West Ham last weekend.
  • Rovers are bidding for a third clean sheet in four matches.
  • Midfielder David Dunn is still a doubt with a calf problem.
  • Rovers have won just one of their last 16 away games.

Expert Advice

Stoke showed what they’re capable of last month with their 3-1 victory over Arsenal in the FA Cup but goals have been at a bit more of a premium in the league and it may well be the case again at the Britannia Stadium this weekend. The Potters are the lowest scorers in the division away from home and are far from prolific at the Britannia Stadium. They are strong in defence, though, especially at home, and face a Blackburn side who seem to have forgotten how to win on the road. A tight and low-scoring affair looks in prospect, with Betsson’s price of 3.25 for a draw appearing a value bet.

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