Regarding pubs around the station and ground etc..
Im a blue living in Stoke unfortunately!
The Roebuck is now shut as the Uni have bought it which was nearest the station. There is also the Fawn and The Terrace which are both shitholes and should be avoided!
If you turn right out of the station and turn left at the lights you will see Staffordshire University which opens the Student union just for away fans on matchdays. Cheap as and the beer is pretty good too!
You can leave cars there as well but it's about 3 miles to the ground but very easy to get taxis from.
Dont worry about trouble, there is a massive police presence for anyone round here so I expect it will be doubled for us!
Hope this helps, maybe see you at the ground if there are any tickets left on Wednesday!