Britannia Stadium
Saturday Oct 17, 3pm

Last meeting: Stoke 0-1 West Ham (02-05-09) A first-half Diego Tristan goal ensured the Hammers went back down the M6 with all three points from the Britannia Stadium last season. They will be hoping for a similar result this time around.

The opposition: While Stoke aren't quite suffering on the same scale as West Ham at present, the team are winless in four Premier League games and have developed a shortage of goals, managing just six in the league so far.

Danger men: James Beattie will be a handful up front, while the game also sees the appearance of a friendly face. Matthew Etherington is sure to receive a warm reception from the travelling Hammers fans after six seasons with the club. He didn't do much damage the last time these teams met, and Gianfranco Zola will be hoping for a similar favour on Saturday.

Prediction: Stoke 1 West Ham 2

Did you know? Stoke are responsible for the emergence of England great Sir Stanley Matthews. The winger was an apprentice at the club and made his debut in March 1932 at the age of 17. Six years later Matthews asked to be transferred, but after 3000 fans protested and a further 1000 marched outside the ground with placards, he stayed put.

Betting tip: Things have to turn around sooner or later for West Ham. And that could be as soon as Saturday. We at the Guardian are backing Carlton Cole and Luis Jiminez to score in a 2-1 win. You can find odds of 10/1 with Bet365 on that score.