Clean sheet a positive for McLeish.

Byline: Colin Tattum

ALEX McLeish said his team deserved plenty of plaudits for their defensive capabilities.

Despite not having what would be considered their first-choice backline available so far, the rearguard have not been found wanting.

They have recorded back-to-back clean sheets, a far cry from the relegation of 2007/8 when only three shut-outs were kept all campaign long.

"Hats off to them," said the manager. "The defenders have done well.

"They have concentrated very well because it is a step up, the Premier League. So far the defending has been very pleasing. Not only by the defenders but the work-rate in front of them that has helped get the shut-outs.

"They have been aided and abetted by the midfield guys who worked their socks off."

Turning to Saturday's opponents, McLeish said: "Stoke City look as if they have got it off to a tee: the back four are helped by the midfield four who are right in front of them.

"To penetrate Stoke is difficult. OK, the genius of Liverpool undid them in the week but I think Tony Pulis perhaps plays differently against the Liverpools of this world than he does against us.

"We stood up to their set-pieces and throws well. We had some problems in the first half. Thank God we got away with it. But second half we dealt with it much better. It was important we didn't panic and I didn't feel it was a massive threat to us."