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Stoke City team news vs Burnley as Narcis Pelach to make late call on key man

Narcis Pelach oversees training at Stoke City.
-Credit: (Image: Stoke City)


Stoke City will make a late call on key man Enda Stevens as they prepare to take on Burnley.

The left-back pulled out of a goalless draw with Preston North End in mid-week after feeling a problem in his calf but that precaution should mean he is fine to be considered for selection at the bet365 Stadium tomorrow (3pm). Eric Bocat is otherwise on standby to return.

Narcis Pelach explained at his pre-match press conference today: “I think Enda stopped himself on time because he knows his body. I think he’s better than expected. We’re going to assess him now but probably he will be available. I cannot be 100 per cent sure about it until we’ve made that assessment but it’s better than expected and hopefully he can play tomorrow and if not he will be available for the next one.”

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Lynden Gooch is back in full training and could be used from the bench, having not played since picking up a knee injury in September.

Pelach said: “Lynden is with the team and available for selection. I will have to consider if he will come to the game or he will wait or maybe he can make an impact later on. But he’s available and that’s good news because it’s another option and another player who can help.”

Bosun Lawal and Sam Gallagher are both set to start joining in full training next week. Ben Pearson is still recovering from a hamstring injury.

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