EAST LONDON, England (CMC):

The Jamaica international, Ricardo Fuller, could return to the Stoke City line-up for their English Premier League match tomorrow against Tottenham Hotspur in a battle of struggling teams.

Fuller has completed a three-match ban for the red card he incurred on December 28 for striking his captain Andy Griffin during Stoke's 2-1 defeat to West Ham.

Stoke City manager Tony Pulis believes the 29-year-old forward can rebound from the incident and resume his solid attacking duties for the club.

"I can't speak for Ric, but he certainly gives the impression he's raring to go," Pulis told reporters over the weekend.

"I'm sure he's desperately keen to get back into the team, to do well for the club, the fans and for the rest of the lads," Pulis added.

Mid-pitch clash

The December 28 incident was triggered when an incensed Fuller confronted Griffin over his role in trying to stop Carlton Cole when the West Ham scoring ace netted an equalising goal.

The two clashed in mid-pitch and Fuller's flailing hand hit Griffin in the face.

Fuller subsequently apologised and Griffin has since declared he has forgiven his teammate for the outburst.

Pulis is pleased with Fuller's effort in training. He believes the scandal is now behind them and that Fuller is ready to return and give his best for the club, although he may not be match sharp.

"I'm sure he's got over everything that's happened, and he's certainly looked as bright as a button whenever he's put his foot down in training. The only concern is that he's gone so long without playing, but I'm sure he'll pick up the pace pretty quickly," Pulis said.

Next highest scorer

With six goals in the premier league, Fuller has doubled the next highest scorer Mamady Sidibe (3) to be Stoke's most successful forward this season.

Stoke, currently 19th with 21 points in the 20-team premier league table, will be away to 16th-placed Tottenham at White Hart Lane.

Defending champions Manchester United are leaders with 47 points - on goal difference - over Liverpool (47), with Chelsea (45), Aston Villa (44) and Arsenal (41) next in the table.