Molineux hosts the Potters in a Clash of Midlands Meh

Ah, the League Cup. That glorious bastion of mid-week football where ambition goes to die and managers play their reserve left-back just to see if he can kick straight. This week, we're treated to a Midlands 'derby' that promises... well, something. Wolverhampton Wanderers, fresh from their Premier League relegation hangover, welcome Stoke City.

Wolves, currently sitting a respectable, if uninspired, 7th in the Championship after an inconsistent start (2 wins, 1 loss), will fancy themselves. They've still got remnants of Premier League quality, players who probably think this competition is beneath them. Will they bring their A-game, or will it be a glorified training session? Their recent form has been a bit Jekyll and Hyde – capable of flashes of brilliance, but also baffling periods of lethargy. If they turn up, it could be a rout. If not, they might just be ROLLED OVER.

Then there's Stoke. The Potters, floundering at 16th with only 3 points from their opening three games (1 win, 2 losses), see this as a chance for a scalp. A chance to remind everyone they used to be good. Their brand of football remains... robust. Expect long balls, committed tackles, and possibly a few 'whoops, didn't see you there' moments. For them, this isn't just a cup tie; it's a trip to the local big boys, and they'