Wigan away to Stoke

It's a busy week in the League. Wigan play away to Stoke on Tuesday night and at home to Southampton on Saturday.

Stoke's unbeaten home record has come to an abrupt halt. Their last three home games have seen a defeat by Chelsea, an win in extra time against Crystal Palace and an FA Cup defeat by Chelsea.

And their recent League form is not too impressive either. They have had just one win in the last eight games - an impressive 3-1 defeat of Liverpool - with a total of 8 goals for and 15 against.

After their game against Wigan, they go to Arsenal on Saturday.

Southampton have enjoyed a free week-end, and a chance to get to know their new manager. They make the long trip to play at Old Trafford on Wednesday night and return to the north west to play Wigan on Saturday.

In addition, there is another six-pointer on Tuesday when Aston Villa play host to Newcastle.

Managers must decide how to employ their resources most effectively. Will Stoke make a greater effort against Wigan than Arsenal? Will Southampton keep something in reserve for their game against Wigan? Will Martinez play a full team - including Figueroa - against Stoke?

It's going to be an interesting - and possibly agonising - week.