WELL I don't know about anyone else, but 10 points and 15th place from the first 10 games will do me fine.

And that start to the season sounds even more satisfying when you consider the tough fixtures Stoke have come through.

Now it's another really big one... the mighty Arsenal.

The very name brings back memories of two certain FA Cup semi- final defeats against them – even though it was nearly 40 years ago – and my wife still swears when she hears their name.

I got some revenge when I managed York to a famous FA Cup win against them in 1985.

Stoke also beat the Gunners that year, one of only three wins on the way to relegation.

Now for trying to repeat the dose tomorrow against Arsene Wenger's modern-day vintage.

This lot are something special and a real joy to watch as they move the ball around with such grace and style.

Cesc Fabregas is the one who really does it for me because of his vision and touch.

He reminds me of Huddy at his peak, though I wouldn't think he knocks them back like Alan once did before a game.

The big question mark over Arsenal, of course, is how they handle the rougher stuff.

We've seen how they've come unstuck at the likes of Bolton in the past and I'm hoping it can be a similar scenario tomorrow.

The atmosphere will be electric and, if Stoke can get about them like they did with Sunderland on Wednesday, they've got a real chance of ruffling their feathers.

There must also be a doubt over Arsenal's mental state after losing a two-goal lead late on against Spurs.

What would worry me, if I was Wenger, is the number of young players in my team and the effect that kind of experience might have on them just three days later.

Stoke should be full of confidence and must try to exploit that, but also get the balance right because getting over-committed in numbers leaves you vulnerable against Arsenal's pace on the counter-attack.

I want to see Seyi Olofinjana get forward as much as he was prepared to do against Sunderland, while Ryan Shawcross must continue building on his fine form since returning at the back.

Believe me, as a centre-half, there's nothing like a clean sheet to work wonders with your confidence.