[Image] Here’s the predicted 4-1-4-1 Stoke XI to face Middlesbrough – can the Potters grab a win?

Probable Stoke City line-up to face Middlesbrough in the Championship

Stoke City are slowly and gradually make their way up the table as the Potters aim to make a push for Premier League promotion. Gary Rowett’s men will now turn their attention to Middlesbrough in the league this weekend.

Boro have been in impressive form this season and will pose a tough test for the Potters but Gary Rowett would know that. The manager will want a strong performance from his side no matter what.

Team News

Etebo is still out and will be unavailable. Mame Biram Diouf and Darren Fletcher are also still injured. Sam Clucas and Ibrahim Afellay are also a long way from returning but the manager still possesses a plethora of options at his disposal.

Probable Stoke City XI

Manager: Gary Rowett

Formation: 4-1-4-1

Jack Butland (GK)

Though he has lived up to his standard, Butland will, nevertheless, continue in goal.

Thomas Edwards (RB)

The 19-year-old impressed in the absence of Cuco Martina and he will continue at right-back.

Ryan Shawcross (CB)

Shawcross will return to the line-up for this game and lead the Potters from the back.

Martins Indi (CB)

Martins Indi seems to perform better when Shawcross partners him at the back.

Erik Pieters (LB)

Pieters has improved over the last few weeks and the full-back should now aim to maintain consistency.

Ryan Woods (CM)

Woods has impressed in the middle of the park and will continue to dictate the play.

Tom Ince (RM)

Ince has shown great form over the last few weeks and has been creating a lot of chances.

Charlie Adam (RCM)

Adam should come in place for the injured Darren Fletcher. A rare appearance for the former Liverpool midfielder.

Joe Allen (LCM)

Allen has been fruitful with his passing but needs to provide more going forward.

James McClean (LM)

McClean could return to the line-up in place of Saido Berahino on the left flank.

Read more: Why West Brom signing this 32-year-old veteran midfielder in January would boost their promotion hopes

Benik Afobe (ST)

Afobe is their only fit and firing striker at the moment. He will lead the line once again.