Winger worry for Potters

Jermaine Pennant is struggling with a flu virus and is doubtful for Saturday's clash against Newcastle.

Pennant has been told to keep away from the training ground for the last few days after being struck down by the virus and boss Tony Pulis is not sure whether he will be fit enough to face the Magpies. It is hoped Pennant may be able to train on Friday and Pulis will then assess his condition before making a decision on whether to include him in the match day squad. Stoke have not had a game for 12 days and Pulis says the rest will have done the squad good before one final push. "Jermaine hasn't been in for three or four days with a virus and he's been really bad with it, so we'll have to see how he shapes up in training," Pulis told the club's website. "Other than that the player have looked really bright in training so far this week and they've felt the benefit of having a well-earned rest over the past week or so."