Premier League preview: Stoke v Norwich

Having ended their losing league run, Stoke City will be aiming to build on their win over Swansea City when they host Norwich on Saturday.

Goals from Matthew Upson and Peter Crouch guided Tony Pulis’ men to the 2-0 victory last time out, snapping a run of four consecutive English Premier League losses.

Stoke have struggled up front in 2012, having netted just four league goals – all of which have been headers from set-pieces.

The win over Swansea lifted Stoke into 12th and 12 points clear of the relegation zone – a healthy buffer Pulis will hope to maintain.

Crouch netted in the league for the first time since January 2 with his effort against Swansea, taking his tally to seven in the Premier League.

While Stoke’s aerial threat is well-known, Pulis would undoubtedly like more goals from Jonathan Walters.

The Ireland striker has scored five league goals, but three of them have been from the penalty spot.

Pulis will have almost a full squad to choose from, with only Malian forward Mamady Sidibe out injured.

They welcome Norwich City to Britannia Stadium after Paul Lambert’s promoted side almost snatched an unlikely point at home to Manchester United.

Captain Grant Holt (10 league goals) put them on level terms in the 84th minute at Carrow Road, but Ryan Giggs scored a winner for the visitors soon after.

Holt’s form has seen him touted for potential England selection, although Stuart Pearce chose not to include him in his squad for England’s 3-2 loss to the Netherlands on Wednesday.

Norwich, who have made an impressive return to the top flight, have lost just two of their past eight league games.

Lambert is again likely to be without several players because of injury, including Daniel Ayala and Declan Rudd, while Jonny Howson and Marc Tierney are on the comeback trail.

Pulis will hope his side can build momentum after their win over Swansea, but they meet a Norwich side that continues to surprise this campaign.