Nathaniel Wedderburn has forced his way into the first team picture for Tuesdays Carling Cup tie away at Portsmouth.
Wedderburn, 18, has impressed during training and for the reserves and looks set for at least a place on the bench.
The academy graduate has been on the bench on two previous occasions, both in the Carling Cup, but is now considered a fully fledged member of the Potters back up squad.
The midfielder spent three months out on loan to Notts County last season and also made his debut for England U19's earlier this month, playing two games as the Three Lions qualified for the next phase of the U19 European Championships.