Stoke City striker Jonathan Walters has claimed that the club's summer transfer activity will improve the team's chances of a top-10 finish in the Premier League this season.

Tony Pulis added a number of players to his squad in the closing stages of the transfer window before signing free agent Michael Owen last week.

Walters believes that there is plenty of competition for places at the Britannia Stadium and admits that his spot in the team is not safe.

The Republic of Ireland international told the club's website: "We have a very strong squad here now, and there are a number of players for every position.

"That can only be a good thing for the manager, because it gives him plenty of options coming into games and it also means that the players have to stay on their toes and keep producing the goods.

"I'm desperate to play matches, just as the other 24 lads are who are in the squad, but I won't be taking it as a given that I am in there."

Stoke host champions Manchester City on Saturday afternoon.