Monday 12 June 2017 13:19, UK
Stoke chairman Peter Coates has offered his backing to manager Mark Hughes following criticism from some fans last season.
The former Wales boss came under fire after the Potters finished 13th in the Premier League but Coates insists Hughes retains his full support.
"We are confident in what he's achieved so far, [it] gives us confidence he can continue to do well for us, otherwise we would have done something about it," he said.
"A small number can make a lot of noise, and the media always pick up on it. That's not a criticism, it's a reality.
"I understand why, they like a bit of controversy and something to talk about. We felt he's done well for us since he's been here, and we don't expect that to change.
"I've been around so long, I take it as part of the game and don't get too worked up about it. It's how supporters are - and not just Stoke supporters - if you're not doing well, they will let you know. "
Coates also admitted it will be hard for clubs to break into the top six, with sixth-placed Manchester United finishing 23 points clear of Southampton in eighth.
"I think there is a danger [that the top 6 will pull further away]," he added. "The gap will be hard to bridge.
"They have hugely more money than the rest of the clubs, I have a theory that you play to your economic resource, give or take bad management."
Coates also revealed Glenn Whelan - understood be Sky Sources to be the subject of a rejected £500,000 bid by Aston Villa - can leave the club at the right price.
He also confirmed Bojan might still have a future at Stoke, but they will help £18.3m club-record signing Gianni Imbula find a new club after he failed to settle at the club.
