LeeDixon

Is Stoke's reputation as a formidable home team warranted? They've won four at the Britannia Stadium, drawn two and lost two in the Premier League this season so perhaps it's not the fortress that some make out. Mind you, I was correct to predict that Tottenham's winning run would end there a fortnight ago and it remains true that few teams relish a trip to the Potteries. That certainly applies to Aston Villa, a team who, despite giving an improved performance against Arsenal, have little to cheer this Christmas. Stoke fans make the most noise and the Britannia's fearsome reputation will give the home side a psychological advantage. That can count for a lot, especially when things are going against you, as they are for Alex McLeish's men. Villa sit 12th in the table, at that crucial ...