Spurs steamrolled the Potters in this fixture last season, killing the game off early. Are you expecting a tougher game this time around?
Definitely. Last season was a very impressive display from Spurs and on the night, I think we would have dismantled any team in the Prem. Luka Modric was sensational and it was a game where everything seemed to click for Spurs. This season you have again started brightly, but you now seem to have the confidence that you are good enough for this level and Pulis has bought excellently to add quality and depth to your squad so this won’t be another stroll
Stoke are well known for their physical nature, but what kind of game will Spurs be aiming for?
Have to say that I had no problems with your style last season and it was up to the opposition to counter it. The media latched onto the Delap throw and this was all they were interested in, but there was so much more. Strong players with a great work ethic, but also matched with impressive technical ability. As for Spurs, I think we have added a greater work ethic ourselves and are gaining in confidence with every game. I think Spurs will always look to play open and attractive football, but under Harry, we also look more solid and prepared to fight for the right to play our game.
Both sides have exceeded expectations so far, Spurs are third whilst Stoke have only lost to the 'Big 4'. Do you think both sides can hold onto the positions they currently have?
I think you will be there or there abouts and finish around the middle of the table and anywhere between 8th and 12th should be considered as a great season for you and real progress. I predicted that Spurs would finish 6th at the start and despite how things have panned out, I am not feeling any different. Both sides have and will improve on last season, but at this stage I am preferring not to get carried away.
Any Stoke players you are wary of?
I hate this question, because I always look at opposing squads and see so many players who have done well against us in the past. James Beattie is always difficult to play against and Ricardo Fuller ripped us to shreds at the Britannia last season. But you also have a number of fantastic pros, such as Whitehead and Faye, who always give everything. Oh and does Delap still take your throws? I hear they are quite good ;-)
Who should Stoke be keeping a close eye on?
If we go by players comments, Peter Crouch is really up to make an impression. With Defoe suspended, this is his chance to get a regular start and after upsetting Harry this week, he could be the man. The positive for Spurs is that we have so many options. No team fancies their chances against Aaron Lennon, and Niko Kranjcar will be all over the pitch looking to cause problems.
...and finally, a prediction?
An early Spurs goal like last season and I think it will be a comfortable day for us, but you have been really solid this season (Liverpool aside) so we need to stick to the plan and not lose composure. It seems that your main problem is scoring and I hope this continues and would happily take 1-0 now, but I will be bold and go with 3-1 and that early goal, from that bad boy Peter Crouch...