Diao ready to go

Stoke star Salif Diao is hoping to play a full part in the Potters' debut Premier League season after shaking off a knee injury.

The Senegal international made just a handful of appearances in the promotion-winning campaign last time around but has now signaled his intent as he returns to the top flight following a spell with Liverpool.

Diao told The Sentinel: "I haven't had much of a holiday, but the most important thing is the job.

"There will be plenty of time for a holiday when I have finished playing.

"It is frustrating when you play and are not 100 per cent. Hopefully, this time I can show the fans the real side of me."