Predicted lineup for Stoke City against QPR

Ahead of the crucial match for Stoke City against QPR, we take a look at the possible lineup for Stoke City as The Potters try to win the match and gain momentum for promotion.

Predicted Formation- 4-1-4-1

Goalkeeper- Jack Butland

It is evident that unless Gary Rowett goes mad or unless Butland gets injured, the England international will start for Stoke City, there is no one close to his shot-stopping ability in Stoke City’s squad, I expect him to come up trumps for Stoke City again

Defence- Martins Indi, Shawcross, Williams, Edwards

Bruno Martins Indi will have to start for Stoke City as Erik Pieters is still out with injury, while Williams and Shawcross have formed a somewhat stable partnership at the back. Tom Edwards has been impressive in the last few weeks and should get the nod over Cuco Martina

Midfield- McClean, Allen, Etebo, Ince

Tom Ince looks to have recovered from a hernia operation, and with Mame Biram Diouf not exactly doing all that much to convince Gary Rowett he deserves to start, Ince should come back into the starting lineup. The new signing from Huddersfield has the ability to create chances and be a thorn in the QPR defence. James McClean has been struggling in the last few weeks on the field and off the field, but I believe that Rowett will give him another chance because Rowett pursued McClean so relentlessly. Joe Allen and Peter Etebo will hope to bring a bit of spark from the midfield, Ryan Woods might take Etebo’s spot but Rowett might think Allen and Woods are too similar.

Striker- Afobe

Only viable option for Stoke City unless Peter Crouch has the stamina to pay 90 minutes which seems unrealistic at the moment. Afobe though at the moment doesn’t look like he’s going to score a goal soon.