RYAN SHOTTON was the surprise inclusion in Tony Pulis’ starting eleven for the clash against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane on Saturday.
The Fenton-born star, who was forced to miss last weekends draw with Everton through suspension, came into the side at the expense of the Charlie Adam, who was absent following the bereavement of his father.
Shotton lined up on the right hand side of a four-man midfield, which also included Steven Nzonzi, Republic of Ireland international Glenn Whelan and Matthew Etherington.
Kenwyne Jones retained his spot in attack, meaning former Spurs favourite Peter Crouch had to be content with a spot amongst the substitutes. He was partnered by Jonathan Walters.
Asmir Begovic, who has more clean sheets to his name than any other top-flight stopper, ushered an unchanged backline of Andy Wilkinson, Ryan Shawcross, Robert Huth and American Geoff Cameron.
Stoke City (4-4-2): Begovic; Wilkinson, Shawcross (C), Huth, Cameron; Shotton, Whelan, Nzonzi, Etherington; Walters, Jones. Subs: Sorensen, Upson, Palacios, Whitehead, Kightly, Jerome, Crouch.