Stoke City v Cardiff City, Saturday Dec 10th, ko 3:00pm
Live on Sky Sports Red Button
Cardiff City boss Mark Hudson: "It's been a bit disjointed, but we've been back together for a good period of time now, and done some really good work on the grass.
"I'd like to think that we can come back better. We're always asking for it, and that's something we'll continue to do. We know that there are things we need to work on, but there have been some really pleasing bits.
"I'm looking for consistency from the team, that whoever is used comes and shows their best selves.
"We know that Stoke is a tough place to go, but any away game in this league is. We've spoken about them, put it in the boys' minds of what we're going to experience when we go up there. We'll be fully prepared."
Team News
Jaden Philogene will miss the clash after having surgery to repair a hernia issue. He will hopefully be back next week.
That is the case for Isaak Davies, too. Davies will play for the under-21s today against Wolves to complete his final return-to-play protocol before his back in contention next week.
Ebou Adams is out after a setback thanks to a fresh injury to his knee. His frustrating wait on the sidelines remains.
Jamilu Collins is the long-term absentee, but all the players who went on international duty will be back and available for selection.
As for Stoke, Sam Clucas and Josh Laurent remain out of contention, but Harry Souttar returned from a knee injury to star for Australia at the World Cup, so he could be in contention.
Stoke City
Harry Souttar, fresh from his World Cup exploits with Australia, is expected to be available to Alex Neil.
The giant central defender was a key figure for the Aussies as they reached the last 16 in Qatar before bowing out at the hands of Argentina last Saturday. He arrived back in the UK earlier this week and has trained with his club teammates ahead of the visit of Cardiff.
Match Officials:
Referee: Andy Woolmer
Assistant Referee: George Byrne
Assistant Referee: Bhupinder Gill
Fourth Official: John Busby