Delap - Stoke won't go down

Midfielder confident of successful season in top flight

Last updated: 5th July 2008

stoke rory delap

Delap: Feeling confident

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Rory Delap believes Stoke City can push for a position in the top half of the Premier League table.

Stoke are back in the top flight for the first time in 23 years, but have been tipped to make an immediate return to the Championship.

However, Delap is not harbouring thoughts of a season of struggle and feels the Potters are capable of making an impact amongst the big boys.

"If we can keep that togetherness in the dressing room, then we won't go down," Delap told Sky Sports News.

"If we can get going that little bit and get on runs like we did last year, then I think nearer the middle, and even the bottom of the top half, is possible this season."

Keane praise

Delap moved to the Britannia Stadium on a permanent basis from Sunderland 18 months ago, having previously broken his leg while on loan at Stoke.

He had quickly been told he had no future on Wearside after Roy Keane took charge, but Delap does not hold a grudge against the Sunderland boss.

"He was great with me," added Delap. "He made it easy for me. He didn't make it difficult and not talk to me and make it hard.

"Even when I broke my leg against Sunderland, Roy was great. He rang me up in the hospital and said if I need to go back, or if I need anything, he'd be on the end of the phone and I appreciated it."