RORY Delap says he is excited about Stoke's new signings and can't wait to see them in action – even though their arrival could put his own place in doubt, writes Jon Owen.

Midfielder Delap has started the past three games on the right-hand side of the Potters midfield.

But the transfer deadline day arrival of Jermaine Pennant, Marc Wilson and Eidur Gudjohnsen, coupled with the impressive form of Jon Walters, could see Delap on the bench for Monday's televised match against Aston Villa at the Britannia Stadium (8pm).

Delap's devastating long throws have seen him make more Premier League appearances for Stoke – 73 – than any other player, but he is philosophical about his chances of facing Villa.

"It's up to the manager to decide what team to go with, so there isn't much point worrying about it," said the 34-year-old. "But seeing players like Eidur Gudjohnsen around the club is a brilliant thing for Stoke.

"I obviously want to be in the starting 11 every game, but the new signings have all fitted in well and everyone at the club is excited about seeing them play.

"It's good to have competition for places, and we certainly have that at the club now."

Delap says the players are keen to welcome the new arrivals by registering their first points of the Premier League season and beating Villa after defeats to Wolves, Spurs and Chelsea.

"We haven't felt sorry for ourselves after losing our opening three games," said the former Derby, Southampton and Sunderland player.

"It'll be nice to get the first points on the board, but we know it'll be tough – they could have a new manager in charge come Monday.

"That said, we know our fans will be right behind us for this game, just like they are for every game at the Britannia Stadium."

Stoke's first ever Premier League win came against Villa in 2008, Mama Sidibe heading home a Delap throw in injury-time to give the Potters a dramatic 3-2 success.

Delap added: "It's usually a good game when we play Villa, and winning our first ever game in this league against them always means it brings back nice memories for us."