Stoke's possession has recently produced little accurate finishing. Preston's revised front line gives their recoveries quicker outlets into the channels. The central contest is whether the first forward pass makes the outside defenders turn before the rest of the back line can settle.
Alexander described changing from two supporting creators to two strikers with a playmaker behind them. Against West Brom, that arrangement helped Preston reach the box repeatedly without needing much possession. Devine or Moran can support the runners, while Mills adds delivery from the side.
Stoke's continuing absences restrict their alternatives, and Cisse's current clearance remains unresolved after his early injury substitution. Preston's local update supports Devine's availability after a clear scan and a week of training; he played the first half against West Brom. Lindsay is still a doubt, so his return is not part of the argument.
I expect Stoke to have more settled possession and Preston to press in spells, then look forward quickly. The recent second-half improvement gives those channel runs and supporting changes particular relevance as the contest develops. Preston's available route into areas Stoke have already conceded is why I'm siding with Preston to avoid defeat.
