Stoke City boss Tony Pulis feels Alan Pardew has benefited from fielding a settled Newcastle United line-up this season.

City face a tough game against a Newcastle side who have been the surprise package of the Premier League, remaining unbeaten in their first nine matches of the campaign.

"Alan has been fortunate in that he has been able to keep a settled side," commented Pulis. "When you get off to a good start, the confidence quickly runs through the group.

"The fact that they have been able to keep a settled side means that the new players have gelled. They look strong and they have also got good balance to the side."