Stoke were outclassed by a typically resolute Millwall side on the opening day of the Championship season, conceding twice to loanee defender Charlie Cresswell in a 2-0 away defeat. The Potters were dismal towards the end of the 2021/22 season and a poor start to this campaign will put Michael O'Neill under a lot of pressure. Blackpool enjoyed the perfect start to life under new manager Michael Appleton with Josh Bowler's strike sinking Reading in a 1-0 home victory. The Tangerines face a difficult season to secure survival, but they have a great opportunity to secure six points from their opening two games here. 1:1
There have been under 2.5 goals scored in Stoke's last 6 home games (Championship). Stoke have seen under 2.5 goals in their last 5 matches against Blackpool in all competitions. Blackpool have kept a clean sheet in their last 3 away matches against Stoke in all competitions.
Michael O'Neill could hand a full debut to Southampton loanee Will Smallbone this weekend with centre-back Phil Jagielka also coming in for his first start of the season. The Potters will once again be without towering centre-half Harry Souttar and creative midfielder Nick Powell. Michael Appleton could hand starts to midfielder Kenny Dougall and winger Theo Corbenau for the trip to Staffordshire this weekend. The Tangerines have six confirmed absentees for Saturday afternoon's clash, including goalkeeper Chris Maxwell.