Mark Hughes was a relieved man as Stoke City managed to get an uncanny win against high flying Watford. The Potters failed to register a win in the past two matches but Watford couldn’t get past a stringent Stoke side as Hughes’ team returned from the Vicarage Road with precious three points.
However, they are due to face a far stiffer challenge when they host a resurgent Leicester City. The foxes recently went through a makeover as Claude Puel took charge at the King Power Stadium following the ouster of Craig Shakespeare.
The French manager led his team to a winning start and would use all his resources to make it two wins in a row. Stoke showed signs of recovery against the Hornets and they need to maintain their run to remain in the fight for a place in the top ten position.
Hughes’ job is still under scrutiny as it seems he has failed to use the potential of a side who defeated Arsenal and Watford and snatched a point off Manchester United.
Predicted 3-4-2-1 Stoke City Lineup Vs Leicester City
Defence
Jack Butland kept a clean sheet in the last match and is expected to be in the Potters goal.
Hughes has opted for a more fluid three-man defence and he will continue to use it. Ryan Shawcross, Kevin Wimmer and Kurt Zouma have to deal with the fierce Foxes attacking lineup. The back three had a good time in the last match and should continue their transition.
Midfield
Eric Pieters has been a long-serving player for the Potters and the 29 years will be on the left side.
Mame Diouf has slowly started to find his rhythm in the right wing back position and will continue there.
Joe Allen’s stock is declining with every passing game and the Welsh midfielder needs to put a solid performance against the Foxes in a bid to silence his critics.
Darren Fletcher has found life good at the BET365 Stadium since his summer switch from West Brom. The experienced midfielder hit the winning goal against Watford and will be bristling with confidence.
Attack
Xherdan Shaqiri has flourished in the new central role provided to him this season. The Swiss international’s service will be required in this match.
Ramadan Sobhi will find himself alongside Shaqiri just behind the main striker.
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting will be leading the line for the Potters.
