Mark Hughes has hailed his Stoke City side for embracing his philosophy quicker than anticipated.

Stoke had earned a reputation as a long ball team under former manager Tony Pulis and were roundly criticized by many for their aggressive approach.

Since the appointment of Hughes last season though, the Potters have implemented a more free flowing style of football and now the 51-year old has praised the players for accepting his game plan so swiftly.

Hughes said: "Probably the work we did in trying to change the way we played was embraced quicker than I thought it would be.

"That's credit to the players. Without their help, it would have been nigh on impossible. They have been really committed to what we have been trying to do in our day-to-day work and credit to them.

"That's helped the club to move forward in my view. Hopefully, we will stay in the top-10, if not higher, and that's a good response and a good place to be when you're looking to move the club forward."