Steve Sidwell says he hasn't moved to Stoke City to be a squad member.
The midfielder joined Stoke this week from Fulham.
"There are some fantastic midfield players here," said Sidwell, who has penned a two-year deal.
"I played with Stephen Ireland at Villa and know his game inside out. Other players - like Whelan, Adam, Nzonzi - are quality too.
"It's going to be hard to grab a starting shirt, but that's what I'm here for.
"I'm not here to make numbers up or sit on the bench. Whatever the decision may be from the manager I will get on with it and if I'm not in the starting 11 one week I will push to be in it the next.
"When it comes to fighting for your shirt, not just against one person but when you've got a few chasing that position, it can only be good and healthy for the squad."
