Pulis rests Stoke regulars
December 14, 2011 15:27:28 UK
Stoke City manager Tony Pulis has named just 15 players in his squad for the Europa League clash with Besiktas in Turkey.
The Potters have already secured a place in the knockout stages of the competition and Pulis has opted to rest most of his senior players for Wednesday night's fixture, which Stoke are 4.75 to win.
Asmir Begovic will return in goal with Thomas Sorensen rested, while the likes of Salif Diao, Matthew Upson and Andy Wilkinson will also get chances to impress.
Youngsters Michael Clarkson and Lucas Dawson have also been included, with Stoke 3.20 to earn a draw which would ensure that they finish top of Group E.
However, despite Stoke being much under-strength, Besiktas' German midfielder Fabian Ernst is expecting a tough encounter, with his side needing a win to pip City to top spot in the group.
He said: "This is not the English mentality. I think they will want to win the game to go into the next round as group winners.
"You know English teams, they will always give you a good fight. No matter which 11 our opponents have, it will be a tough match.
"But I think our chances are good. We played a good away match at Stoke but lost a bit unluckily, so we are looking forward to revenge."
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