Stoke City prepare to host Preston North End this weekend in a Championship fixture that offers a chance to solidify their top-half position. The Potters sit ninth in the table with 20 points from 12 games, while their visitors arrive at the bet365 Stadium propping up the division in 24th place. The match is scheduled for Saturday, 31 October.
Manager Mark Robins will be looking for a response after his side was held to a goalless draw by Bristol City on Tuesday night. That result extended their recent form to three wins, one draw and one loss from their last five outings. They have scored 18 goals this season while conceding 16, leaving them with a positive goal difference of two.
Stoke’s last victory came away at Derby County a fortnight ago, where a Luke Graham strike in the 49th minute, assisted by Ethan Galbraith, secured a 1-0 win. Their fixtures list shows a challenging period ahead, making a positive result against the league's bottom side important. Preston will be desperate for points themselves, having lost the reverse fixture 3-1 back in March.
The full squad will be available for selection as Robins considers his options. A win could see Stoke close the five-point gap to leaders Middlesbrough. The referee’s whistle will sound at 3pm on Saturday to start the contest.
