Cristian Colusso (pictured) is planning to feature in Athletic's home clash with Stoke and is working hard to overcome a knee ligament problem which made him miss the game at Huddersfield. Saturday's game is all ticket against high flying Stoke who boast the best defensive record in Division Two. Darren Sheridan who was sent off for the fourth time this season is relegated to the reserves and is expected be hit with a six match ban which will rule him out of the last two games as well as eating into next season. Lee Duxbury and David Eyres who have both amassed five bookings have escaped suspension as the cut-off point has passed.
Alejandro Strelau has not yet received his International clearance and therefore cannot play competitive matches. He still hopes to impress enough in training to be given an extended trial.