Stoke can work the flanks and attack restarts, while Preston can reach the box with direct passes and second balls. Both sides have created entries without turning enough of them into clean finishes. The next touch after a clearance looks more decisive here than possession alone.
Galbraith and McGlynn give Stoke delivery against Preston's altered back three. Preston's Burgzorg and Kenny can find the first outlet, with Devine, Leroy and the wingbacks supplying the next ball against a Stoke defence that has allowed plenty of box access.
Stoke's near-returning Gallagher, Cresswell and Ingelsson missed their last match, and Cissé left that game injured. Preston's missing midfielders and defenders also missed West Brom, where Storey, Hughes and Offiah already played together and the forward receivers were active.
Stoke's best route is a cross or restart, but its recent open-play possessions have rarely produced repeat accurate shots. Preston can answer through its direct outlet and second-phase attacks, so I'm siding with Preston to take something from this match.
