Source: Team_Talk
Pulis allays Etherington fears
Tony Pulis has revealed Matthew Etherington has a cracked rib but he expects the Stoke winger to line up against Hajduk Split on Thursday.[LNB] Etherington sustained the injury during the first leg of the Potters' Europa League third qualifying round tie at home to Split last week.[LNB]He was the only senior member of Pulis' side omitted from their weekend friendly at Sheffield Wednesday, prompting fears over his fitness. [LNB]However, Pulis is confident the 29-year-old will have recovered in time for the second leg in Croatia as Stoke look to build on their 1-0 advantage. [LNB]"He's got a little crack, that's all, after running into someone in the first game," Pulis told The Sentinel. "It was nothing malicious and it's not a bad injury.[LNB]"He was left out at Sheffield as a precaution. As things stand, he should be OK for Thursday."[LNB]Pulis is expecting an attack-minded approach from Split when they meet in the second leg on Thursday but is confident his side can handle the challenge. [LNB]"I wouldn't be surprised if they swapped things around a bit and maybe go with two up front for this one at their place," he added.[LNB]"They will be a big challenge in front of their own fans, but we relish challenges like that."
