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Gary Rowett to make 2 key changes – Strongest 4-4-1-1 Stoke XI to face Sheffield Wednesday

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Jack Butland got relegated with Stoke City from the Premier League in 2018. (Getty Images)

Predicted Stoke City line-up to face Sheffield Wednesday

Stoke City have to make amends for their poor performances in the opening weeks of the season. The Potters currently sit one point above the relegation zone and are already facing the risk of another drop this season.

Gary Rowett’s side take on Sheffield Wednesday this weekend when the Potters travel to Hillsborough. Stoke were unable to get past West Bromwich Albion last time out but will be aiming to beat Wednesday.

Team News

Ibrahim Afellay, James McClean and Sam Clucas will be out for this game due to injuries but Gary Rowett is boosted by the return of Tom Ince. Apart from the three injuries, the manager has the rest of the squad to select from this weekend.

Probable Stoke City XI

Manager: Gary Rowett

Formation: 4-4-1-1

Jack Butland (GK)

There’s no doubt the England goalkeeper’s saves will be crucial for Stoke during the course of the season. He should start the game.

Cuco Martina (RB)

Martina has proven to be a shrewd loan signing from Stoke City and he should return to the fold against Wednesday.

Ryan Shawcross (CB)

Stoke’s sentinel and leader at the back, Shawcross will be absolutely vital to the backline.

Ryan Shawcross
Ryan Shawcross

Ashley Williams (CB)

Williams has returned from his suspension and should be partnered alongside Shawcross for this game.

Erik Pieters (LB)

The left-back picked up another goal, making it 2 for the season. His marauding runs down the flank will pose all sorts of problems this weekend.

Mame Biram Diouf (RM)

The Senegalese international has thrived after being handed a role on the right-hand side of the midfield. He should be fielded in the same position once again.

Joe Allen (RCM)

Allen’s presence on the field automatically boosts Stoke’s chances of winning the game. His distribution is unrivaled in the squad.

Peter Etebo (LCM)

Etebo brings a sense of security and stability to Stoke in the middle of the park.

Bojan Krkic (LM)

Given that McClean is out injured, Bojan should be given a run to prove himself. The former Barcelona star is versatile enough to play on the left.

Sadio Berahino (CAM)

Berahino scored his first goal in over 2 years last week and should be allowed to maintain his momentum in this game.

Read more: 100% tackle success, 2.7 aerial duels – This 34-year-old veteran could be the man to arrest Stoke City’s slide

Benik Afobe (ST)

The Congo international has already scored 2 goals in 6 games this season. He is their main source of threat going forward.