Star Returns: Strongest 3-4-2-1 Stoke City Line-Up To Face Swansea City

Predicted Stoke City Lineup To Face Swansea City

Stoke City will travel to Wales this weekend as they gear up to take on Swansea City at the Liberty Stadium in the Premier League Matchweek 34.

The Potters broke their 5-game winless run in the league, with a 3-1 win over Hull City last weekend and manager Mark Hughes will be intent on carrying the momentum even after the game against Swansea. Stoke are currently positioned 11th in the league table and a good run of results in the final few weeks of the season could ensure a top-half position.

The last time the two sides met, Stoke ran out comfortable 3-1 winners with striker Wilfried Bony scoring a double against his former side.

Team News

Midfielder Glenn Whelan missed the game against Hull due to illness, but is in line for a return this Saturday, while Joe Allen is being assessed on a day-to-day basis as he continues recovery from his hamstring problems. Ibrahim Afellay will definitely miss out due to a knee injury.

The 3-4-2-1 setup worked well for Stoke against Hull and Hughes could decide to go with a similar approach against Swansea.

Here is how the Potters could line up at the Liberty Stadium:

Probable Stoke City XI:

Formation: 3-4-2-1

Manager: Mark Hughes

Lee Grant (GK)

The 34-year old has been a great addition for Stoke this season. Has kept 9 clean sheets from 28 league games. He should start between the sticks on Saturday.

Ryan Shawcross (CB)

The captain has been rumoured to be looking for a new challenge at the end of the season. He will look to divert his attention from the transfer speculations and concentrate on his on-field display.

Bruno Martins Indi (CB)

The Dutchman has been a virtual rock at the back for the Potters this season. He has shown his abilities and class. He will play at the centre of the three-man backline.

Marc Muniesa (CB)

Occupying the third centre-half slot will be Marc Muniesa. The former Barcelona man hasn’t featured heavily this season and will look to make an impression.

Glen Johnson (RM)

The right wing slot will be taken up by Glen Johnson. The former Liverpool man has been hampered by injuries and has made only 19 league appearances this season. In line to make his 20th appearance.

Geoff Cameron (CM)

The versatile American too has had an injury-hit campaign and has played only 14 league games. He should start in the middle of the park against the Swans.

Charlie Adam (CM)

The former Liverpool man is a key player for Stoke with his years of experience. He will partner Cameron in the midfield.

Erik Pieters (LM)

The Dutchman has been an ever-present in the line-up for the Potters this season. He will start on the left wing on Saturday and provide width going forward.

Xherdan Shaqiri (RAM)

The star of the win over Hull last week, Shaqiri ran the show and scored a spectacular goal as well. Certain starter.

Marko Arnautovic (LAM)

The Austrian is the joint leading goalscorer for Stoke this season with 6 goals. He was on the score-sheet last week and will look to continue from where he left off.

Peter Crouch (ST)

The veteran forward found the back of the net after coming on from the bench last time around. He could get a chance to feature from the get-go in place of Saido Berahino.