After the cup final do you think this game could become a non-event, Stoke will want a top 10 finish and the home side are still hunting down 3rd spot, but it will surely be difficult to get players focused again so soon after a cup final?
I agree the game has come too soon after the cup final , and players 'minds' could still be there , but City HAVE to concentrate ...... third place is definately NOT to be sniffed at , we could avoif CL qualifying games if we get it ........ mind you it would be just like us to blow it now we're so close!
What side do you think the hosts will put out?
Pretty much most of the same team i would think will be turning out i should imagine , although he may well opt to start with Dzeko and Adam Johnson ...... but it will be a very strong side no matter who starts , this game is important to us.
What players would you target, in Mancini's shoes, for next season?
It looks like Udineses Alexis Sanchez is a target , and i've seen Leighton Baines name mentioned too ..... but i'm sure that Mancini will know who he wants
From the outside, where do you think Stoke need to strengthen this close season?
I was quite impressed with your defence on Saturday , City can be a real handful for anybody , but until the goal you coped really well ...... i do however think you could do with maybe a new midfielder and front man .... you looked al ittle bit lightweight in both departments , although i do realise that injuries probably took their toll
Prediction
if we want third place we HAVE to win
City ...... 2 Stoke ........ 0
PS
Stoke have nothing to feel down about after Saturdays loss , you did the best you could with what you had , and the likes of Etherington were clearly struggling for fitness ...... but you defended well and made really difficult for us .... Stokes fans were also a major credit to your club.