Potters to investigate bust-up

Stoke are to conduct an internal investigation into an alleged row between Tony Pulis and James Beattie.

Stoke to look into reports of dressing room row

Stoke are to conduct an internal investigation into an alleged dressing room row between Tony Pulis and James Beattie. The Potters chief and his talismanic frontman are said to have become involved in a heated argument shortly after the club's 2-0 defeat at Arsenal. The row is believed to have been caused by a misunderstanding regarding plans to give the first-team squad a day off on Monday. Stoke were due to remain in London over the weekend, following their showing at Emirates Stadium, so that the players could let their hair down at the club's Christmas party. They were then of the understanding that they would not have to report back for duty until Tuesday. However, after the Gunners encounter, Pulis informed his squad that he expected to see them on Monday as usual. Beattie is reported to have objected to this request, with Pulis then reacting angrily to the striker's response. The Stoke squad did report for training on Monday as usual, but Beattie was not in attendance with his team-mates. He instead paid a visit to the gym at the Britannia Stadium, away from the glare of the public eye, where he is said to have been continuing his rehabilitation from a niggling ankle injury. Stoke chairman Peter Coates said: "As far as the club is concerned, this is an internal matter and will be dealt with internally."