Stoke City will be praying that the point Rory Delap received in his shoulder this week is not the last point that results from his long throw ins.

 

Monday’s cortisone injection is the last that Delap can receive and all concerned are hopeful that it will allow the former Southampton and Sunderland midfielder to continue to provide ammunition for his team mates. So far, seven of Stokes goals have been from Delap throw ins and the loss of such a potent threat would surely be a major blow to Tony Pulis and his sides continued battle to retain their top flight status.

Stokes physical play has drawn criticism from various quarters this season. No doubt their detractors will be hoping that Delap throws in the towel on his throw ins. Potters fans will watch the progress of the Republic of Ireland international with fingers crossed that he recovers to continue launching his rockets into opposition penalty areas. Dean Windass will be looking to 9^th May and wondering whether he will manage to get onto the field before getting cautioned this time around.