REPUBLIC OF Ireland striker Jon Walters arrived at Stoke’s training ground yesterday morning with his bags packed for the Europa League trip to Istanbul, only to be told he would be staying at home after all.
And the striker was not the only one after manager Tony Pulis opted to rest a number of his first-choice players for tonight’s match against Besiktas – but did not tell his squad until the last minute.
Pulis is expected to play a second-string side, with the Potters having already qualified for the last 32 and the clash coming three days after Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Tottenham and three days before another Premier League match at Wolves.
Walters told www.stokecityfc.com: “We were all told to report for training with our bags packed for the trip to Turkey, but the manager has decided to rest many of the players who started on Sunday because we have another big game at Wolves this weekend.”
There is still something to play for tonight for Stoke, who need a draw to ensure top spot in the group, while the same result would give Besiktas second place.
A victory for the Turkish side at the intimidating Inonu Stadium would take them above their opponents, but midfielder Fabian Ernst does not expect an easy ride even if Stoke’s stars are missing.
He said: “This is not the English mentality. I think they will want to win the game to go into the next round as group winners. You know English teams, they will always give you a good fight. No matter which 11 our opponents have, it will be a tough match.
“But I think our chances are good. We played a good away match at Stoke but lost a bit unluckily so we are looking forward to revenge.”
It has already been a notable week for Besiktas after popular coach Tayfur Havutcu was released from jail on Monday pending a probable trial in February on charges of match-fixing.
Havutcu, who will not be in charge tonight, is expected to be at the game.
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