Stoke City boss Tony Pulis says Michael Owen can help them avoid the drop.

Pulis is backing the former England goal ace to help his side stumble over the finishing line.

Pulis said: "People say this is a vital game, but we could lose the next five and win the last two to get to 40 points.

"Every season, if we get to 40 points - no matter what people say - that is a tremendous achievement by this club. Our main problem has been scoring goals, anyone can see that.

"Michael's trained better this week than he has for a long time. He could still play a part. Could he help with one final hurrah? Yes, he could yet score a couple of goals. We certainly haven't written him off."