Pain is Tommy's game

Last updated : 16 March 2004 By John Jenkin

Tommy Smith is suffering from a bruised toe that he picked up in Sunderland's 2-0 win against West Ham. Tommy has declared he will play through the pain barrier, but the question is whether Mick McCarthy will risk Tommy when Darren Byfield is available.

Tommy said "It happened in a tackle in the first half against West Ham and it just came up really badly bruised. Fortunately I was able to play on but after the game it stiffened up and I had to come in on Sunday for more treatment.

"The medical staff have cut a hole in my toe-nail to relieve the pressure and it felt a lot better yesterday, so hopefully I will be okay to play.

"If it is still very sore before the game tonight then there is still a chance that I might have to have a painkilling injection in it in order to play, but hopefully that won't be necessary."

Smith is well aware of what Stoke are capable of, as they have only lost once in 14 league games.

The Sunderland hitman went on to say "The win on Saturday gives us a great boost going into this game. It was probably the most important win of the season. Now we have to follow that up with another three points against Stoke.

"Our home form has been excellent this season and you need that if you want to win promotion. You have to win your home games and try to pick up as many points as possible on the road.

"We've created a great platform for ourselves and we still have some big games to come at home: Norwich, West Brom and Wigan - so there is still all to play for".