Stoke striker Shola Ameobi is a major injury doubt ahead of the televised Championship clash with promotion rivals Bristol City.Ameobi, on loan from Newcastle, picked up a hamstring injury during the 2-1 win at Coventry last weekend and is now rated at 50-50 to face the fourth-placed Robins.

Defender Andy Griffin also sustained a torn hamstring in the same game and will definitely miss out, although Pulis expects the 29-year-old to be back in action again this season.

Ryan Shawcross would appear favourite to deputise for the absent Griffin while Mamady Sidibe could be recalled in attack should Ameobi miss out.

Midfield duo Dominic Matteo (foot) and Salif Diao (hamstring) are closing in on a first-team return but are not expected to feature this weekend, while Liam Lawrence is suffering no ill-effects after overcoming a groin strain to net the winner at Coventry.

Kick off: 5:20pm.

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