Hughes happy at Stoke and wants Europe and trophy

Mark Holmes

Mark Hughes says it would take “a hell of a club” to tempt him away from Stoke City as he goes in search of Europe and silverware.

Stoke have finished ninth in each of their two seasons under Hughes since he took over from Tony Pulis in 2013, but the Welshman is targeting an even better finish this time around.

The Potters are currently 12th, with a modest 16 points from 12 games but boasting a record of only one defeat in their last nine games in all competitions.

The signing of Xherdan Shaqiri over the summer has once again raised expectations at the Britannia Stadium – and not just among supporters.

“We’ve set targets again which are higher than they have ever been before and we’re still on track for that,” Hughes said at a fans’ forum event on Wednesday evening.

“We want to get back into Europe because this club had a fantastic experience before (2011/12) and so we want to do that in the future.

“There’s also the option of winning a trophy and we’ve got an opportunity there (the Potters are in the last eight of the Capital One Cup) which we don’t want to let slip.”

Hughes has repaired his reputation in the Potteries following his spell at QPR, but the former Manchester City boss is not thinking of moving on any time soon.

“I’m happy where I am, thank you very much,” he said. “I feel I’ve got a strong group of players now and don’t underestimate the leadership and ownership of this club.

“The chief executive gives me great support and the Coates family are quite unique because they allow me to get on with my job.

“It would take a hell of a club to get me out of here.”

Discuss this on the Stoke City Your Say forum.