Match Preview :

Many will go on Sunderland here based on the Martin O'Neill factor and the fact that Sunderland beat Norwich 3-0 in midweek to overtake Stoke in the standings into eight spot.

It is true that Martin O'Neill's men have now picked up more points than any other Premier League team since the inspirational boss took the side.

And The Black Cats boss has further bolstered his defensive options with the deadline-day loan signings of Wayne Bridge and Sotirios Kyrgiakos.

On the other hand Tony Pulis's Stoke City side have won just one of their last seven Premier League games and are seeking to avoid a third consecutive defeat.

But Stoke fans will be pleased to know that past meetings are a good omen, as Stoke have won the last four home games against Sunderland, all by a single goal margin.

Meanwhile, Pulis will have to find the answers from within his side as they have no new additions from the January transfer market to help them. One thing is for sure, they cannot afford to go down at home like they did against West Brom when they lost 2-1 last time out.

Team News :

Stoke News :
Pulis has no new injury concerns - with Mamady Sidibe the only long-term casualty. Pulis could make changes after back to back defeats. Matthew Etherington played no part at Manchester United and is expected to start for Stoke

Sunderland Team News :
After four wins from five games, O'Neill is likely to keep faith with the same side. Fraizer Campbell has scored in his last two and will start up front with Stephane Sessegnon. Meanwhile, Michael Turner could continue to deputise for Wes Brown in the side.

Possible lineups

Stoke : Sorensen; Huth, Shawcross, Wilkinson, Wilson; Pennant, Whitehead, Palacios, Etherington; Crouch, Walters.

Sunderland : Mignolet; Bardsley, Turner, O'Shea, Richardson; Larsson, Gardner, Colback, McClean; Sessegnon, Campbell.

Predictions

While everyone is expecting a win for Sunderland or a draw at the very least, I'll go for Stoke to get a shock home win here, considering they have a good past records with the Black Cats.

The Statistics :

The Pick :

Stoke 1-0 Sunderland

FIXED ODDS BETTING :

Go for Stoke to win here.

HANDICAP BETTING :

Expect the unexpected to happen and Stoke to win here and give the -1/4 ball. They have a good past records with the Black Cats and that will come to their aid here.