Potters on front foot - Bego

Tony Pulis' side have travelled to Switzerland to take on the Super League leaders in impressive form, having beaten Hajduk Split over two legs and held Chelsea to a goalless draw in their Barclays Premier League opener.

"From a defensive point of view, we have been superb so far, so we will go there confident of producing another solid performance," Begovic told stokecityfc.com.

"It will be tough - we know that. There are no easy rides anywhere when you are playing home or away in European competition.

"They are flying at the moment, but we are confident too. We beat a very good Hajduk Split side 2-0 in the last round and held Chelsea to a draw on Sunday, so we are going there looking to put ourselves in the driving seat."

The former Portsmouth goalkeeper has established himself as the Potters number one ahead of Thomas Sorensen, but knows he cannot afford to let his standards drop.

"It's fantastic to be involved in these competitions - it's what you aim for as a youngster, so of course you want to play in as many games as possible," he said.

"There is competition for places now and nothing is guaranteed, but I'm obviously hoping to keep my place in the team and help the club to another successful season."

Source: PA

Source: PA