Stoke star ready to return

Palacios has been struggling with a knee injury, but is now hoping to make his return to action against Blackburn this weekend.

“I am 100 per cent and at the manager’s disposal, but it is up to Tony Pulis to put me in the team,” said Palacios.

“I am happy at Stoke. I came here with a bad injury, but now I’m ready to play.

“The players at Stoke are very good, so I have to fight for my place.”