Stoke vs Cardiff (Team News)

Cardiff City are likely to welcome back stand-in captain Stephen McPhail for the trip to Stoke, he is fit again after a hip injury and will replace teenager Aaron Ramsey despite his impressive showing against QPR.


Goalkeeper Michael Oakes will face a late fitness test after a collision with QPR striker Pat Agyemang. Peter Enckelman will play if Oakes is not passed fit.


The only other change likely is the inclusion of Steve Thompson if the busy schedule has taken its toll on Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.


Cardiff (probable): Enckelman, Capaldi, Loovens, Purse, McNaughton, Whittingham, Ledley, McPhail, Rae, Hasselbaink, Parry.

Subs: Forde, Purse, Ramsey, Thompson, Blake/Sinclair.




Stoke City have new signing Glenn Whelan ready to step straight into the starting XI in place of the departed John Eustace.


Former Swansea City striker Mama Sidebe could be available after a suprising early exit for Mali in the African Cup of Nations.


Former Cardiff target Jon Parkin is hoping for a recall in the Potters’ attack alongside top scorer Riccardo Fuller but there is stiff competition with Paul Gallagher, Sidebe and Richard Cresswell all competing for the shirt.



Andy Griffin picked up his 5th yellow card of the season against Charlton but can still face Cardiff City before the automatic 1 match ban comes into effect.