Blackburn - Stoke

Can Blackburn Rovers rediscover their defensive stability when they host Stoke City at Ewood Park on 3 November 2026 for matchday 14? The hosts look to recover from a difficult 4-0 defeat against Swansea City, with the expected XI featuring Balazs Toth in goal behind a defensive line of Gady Beyuku, Sean McLoughlin, Tom Atcheson, and Ryan Alebiosu. Midfielders Todd Cantwell and Jayden Fevrier will be tasked with controlling the tempo to support forwards Andri Gudjohnsen and Oladapo Afolayan as they attempt to break down a disciplined visiting setup.

Stoke City arrive in strong form, highlighted by their recent 2-0 victory over Preston North End. The visitors are expected to rely on the midfield work of Jack McGlynn and Ethan Galbraith to protect goalkeeper Viktor Johansson. With their last meeting ending in a 1-1 draw on 11 April 2026, both sides will be eager to assert dominance in this Championship fixture.