Upson set for debut on plastic pitch

FC THUN V STOKE: New signing Matthew Upson is in line to make his Stoke debut against FC Thun on an artificial pitch in the first leg of their Europa League play-off in Switzerland. It seems likely that fellow new arrival Jonathan Woodgate, who put in a good performance against Chelsea at the weekend, will be not be risked on the surface considering his recent injury history. That would open the way for Upson to come in.

Manager Tony Pulis has other decisions to make with Matt Etherington (shoulder), Rory Delap (thigh) and Jermaine Pennant (leg) all sustaining injuries in Sunday’s goalless draw against Chelsea.

He is taking as many players as he can to Switzerland as the plan after the match is to stay overnight, train the squad and then fly to Norwich to prepare for Sunday’s league match.