Stoke City would go up against Bristol City on Tuesday when both sides clash in the Carabao Cup. The Premier League side would be hoping to get some respite at the back of their loss to Newcastle in the Premier League. Manager Mark Hughes would also be looking at reaching the fourth round of the competition so his senior squad members are expected to partake in the game.
Bristol recently thrashed Derby 4-1 at home and they would be in high morale as they play Stoke at their Ashton Gate ground. However, they would be without Cauley Woodrow and Jonathan Leko. The coach Lee Johnson would hand minutes to Hordur Magnusson and Niclas Eliasson though.
On the other side, Stoke would likely play former Reds man Peter Crouch, Glen Johnson and Charlie Adam. Kurt Zouma is not eligible to face Chelsea on Saturday in the Premier League so he should get some action.
The 31-year old attacking midfielder Stephen Ireland is expected to remain sidelined due to his broken leg. Ibrahim Afellay, Geoff Cameron and skipper Ryan Shawcross would remain out as well due to knee, hamstring and back issues respectively.
Stoke have the figures in their favour having reached the fourth round seven times in the last nine years. They are also in decent form, bar the shock by the Magpies. However, they would face stiff competition from a high scoring Bristol side.
The home fans would be expecting surprises and goals as they have seen this term. Bobby Reid, who has netted seven times already this term, would be seeking to cause trouble. Hughes does not seem too concerned with the competition; one that he knows would likely not end in his favour. An early exit is not out of place and Bristol would be on hand to help deliver it.