Sky Sports pundit David Prutton has backed Bournemouth to maintain their unbeaten record when they take on Stoke City this evening.

Scott Parker's side sit top of the Championship after an excellent start and they head to the Midlands full of confidence after a comfortable 2-0 success at Bristol City last time out.

Nevertheless, they face a huge task against the Potters, who have won five and drawn one of their six games at the Bet365 Stadium.

And, writing in his regular Sky Sports column, former Nottingham Forest midfielder Prutton went for a draw between the two in the promotion clash.

"Parker's men strolled past Bristol City at the weekend to return to the top of the table and extend their unbeaten run to 12 games. This will be a big test - and one that may prove particularly challenging. 1-1."

The Cherries will take encouragement from the fact that they did beat Michael O'Neill's side 1-0 in Staffordshire last season, although Stoke were victorious the last times the teams met at the Vitality Stadium.

The verdict

There won't be many disagreeing with Prutton here as this should be a very tight game between two sides that are certainly capable of winning automatic promotion this season.

Bournemouth have shown more consistency than Stoke this season but the Potters home form has to be respected, so it's going to be a tough game for Parker's side.

If the Cherries do leave with their unbeaten record extended then they will probably see it as a good night, whilst it wouldn't be a decent result for Stoke as well.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.