Everton legend Graeme Sharp believes the Blues are well placed to punish an out of sorts Stoke side on Sunday at Goodison.
The Potters won last time out against lowly Blackburn but that result shouldn´t mask a run of miserable Premier League form.
Tony Pulis´ side have lost all but one of their away fixtures this season and arrive to face a revitalised Everton team who have won their last two.
Sharp said: “They have probably had the worst run of form they have had since they came up to the Premier League and hopefully we can capitalise on that. We had another good result against Bolton and will be looking for another three points on Sunday.”
The Potters have earned a reputation for being a powerful and direct team under Pulis and Sharp says meeting their physical threat head on is crucial to getting a result.
He feels as long as the Blues can defend the inevitable barrage upon their penalty area then their quality in open play should prove decisive.
“Stoke are route one,” said Sharp. “That may be a bit harsh as they have some quality players, but against them you are talking long throws and set pieces. They have been branded like that because that is what they are good at.
“We have to stand up to them physically – if we do that then it will go a long way to getting the three points.”
Tickets are still available for this Sunday’s match and prices start from only £25 for adults and £12.50 for juniors. To buy your tickets visits evertonfc.com/eticketing, call 0871 663 1878 or drop into the box office at Goodison Park.