Meeting a Manchester United hurting from a derby defeat is likely to be the last thing that Tony Pulis would have hoped for as his struggling Stoke side welcome the league leaders to the Britannia.
Man United hold a 12 point lead over City with seven games to go but they will want to put any lingering nerves at bay by getting all three points today.
Alex Ferguson is likely to have Nemanja Vidic, Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling back, while Paul Scholes could also feature after an injury absence.
But Ashley Young is definitely out after an ankle injury sustained against City on Monday.
Stoke are currently three points above the relegation zone and are on a horrendous run which has seen them lose seven of their last 10 games, winning just once.
Tony Pulis is said to be under so much pressure that The Sun claims that he could be sacked if the Potters lose today.
Stoke are likely to have Glenn Whelan back in the fray while Matthew Etherington and Ireland left-back Marc Wilson face late fitness tests.
Our commentary team for the match is Dave McIntyre and Gary Gillespie with kick-off at 2.05pm.