With Stoke in relegation trouble and Manchester United recently rattled by cross-town rivals City, this game is important for both sides.
Of course, given that they still boast a 12 point lead at the top of the table, Manchester United should comfortably cruise to the title. But a slight shadow of doubt has been cast over Old Trafford after they were beaten by City on Monday night, and a win away at Stoke would be perfect to settle any lingering nerves.
Stoke have plummeted to 15th on the back of a six game winless run in which they've only picked up a solitary point. Three points above the drop zone, a failure to find some form quickly could have disastrous consequences for Tony Pulis' side, not least with the team just inside the bottom three, Wigan, having a couple of games in hand on the Potters by the end of the weekend.
Pulis has few excuses for his team's lack of form, as he only has a couple of doubts for this game. Winger Matthew Etherington has been struggling with a back injury, while midfielder Marc Wilson was withdrawn against Aston Villa with a hamstring problem.
As for United, Ashley Young is doubt after sustaining an ankle injury in the derby, while defenders Chris Smalling, Jonny Evans and Nemanja Vidic could also miss out after they were omitted with injury problems. Paul Scholes could be sidelined with a continuation of his knee issue, while Darren Fletcher is definitely out again.
Out: Darren Fletcher (illness) In doubt: Ashley Young (ankle), Chris Smalling (knock), Jonny Evans (hamstring), Nemanja Vidic (back), Paul Scholes (knee)
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