Jon Furnival The Potters have not ruled out the possibility of reaching the top six but will need all three points against promotion chasing Ipswich.
Gifton Noel-Williams, Lewis Neal (both ankle) and Clive Clarke (hamstring) all face late fitness tests ahead of the match against Ipswich.
Midfielder John Eustace is also doubtful with a back injury but new signing Gerry Taggart will take his place at the heart of Stoke's defence.
Ipswich midfielder Chris Bart-Williams misses the trip to Stoke to undergo a scan on his niggling back injury. Finn Shefki Kuqi is back from suspension to take his place in attack.
