Stoke City will take on Mauricio Pochettino’s Tottenham Hotspur at the Bet365 Stadium on Saturday. Mark Hughes’ side are yet to secure their first win this season having started their campaign in a sluggish way. The Potters had to settle for a 1-1 draw against newly-promoted Boro on the opening day but lost both of their two games after that. Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City thrashed the Potters 4-2 while Ronald Koeman’s Everton won by a solitary goal.
On the other hand, Spurs are yet to find their form this season even though they have managed five points from three games. Despite being second best against Liverpool in the last game, Pochettino’s side managed to secure one point against the Reds. However, the Argentine gaffer will be looking for a much better display from his boys. Here are three key battles those could decide the fate of the game.
Ryan Shawcross Vs Harry Kane
We are yet to see the best of Harry Kane so far this season. The fans will have hope of a revival as last season, the English international had a slow start to the season but eventually got to his best. Three games without a goal is a bit surprising for a striker who won the Premier League Golden Boot last season, but Kane never really likes scoring in August, does he? Spurs need a much better display from their very own but he will be up against experienced Stoke City stopper Ryan Shawcross. This battle can potentially decide the outcome of the game.
Joe Allen Vs Victor Wanyama
Stoke City are yet to see the best from their summer signing from Liverpool, Joe Allen. The Welshman had a brilliant Euro 2016 campaign with Wales and made it to the Tournament’s Best XI but he is yet to prove his worth in Stoke colours. 71.7% passing accuracy is poor for a player of Allen’s caliber who is well-known for his range of passing. Allen will be looking to make his impact against Spurs but will face a strong battle from Victor Wanyama for that. The Kenyan international has made an immediate impact at White Hart Lane and will be looking to keep up his good run.
Wilfred Bony Vs Toby Alderweireld
Stoke City had struggled for goals throughout the last season and failed to bring a quality forward this summer until the deadline day. On the deadline day, the Potters signed Manchester City forward Wilfred Bony on a season-loan. The Ivorian will be looking to make an immediate mark at Bet365 Stadium but will be up against one of the best defenders in the Premier League Toby Alderweireld. The battle between the duo will be something to watch out for.
