Stoke City: Roger Hunt predicts tough time ahead for Tony Pulis's Potters
The 69-year-old former Liverpool striker delivered his verdict on the Potters' survival chances at the annual Gordon Banks Charity Golf Classic at Wychwood Park Golf Club, but said he was hopeful Stoke could overcome the odds.
“If you look at the history of the Premier League, you see that usually a couple of the teams who come up don't survive,” said Hunt.
“It's going to be a battle every single week, and I think a lot of it comes down to your home form, which was shown by Sunderland last season.
“It is a big step up, but if they can bring the right players in, they should give themselves a chance.”
Hunt was full of praise for Stoke president Banks, and said he was delighted to be involved in the legendary keeper's annual golf fund-raiser.
He has remained close friends with Banks since their days as international team-mates, and rates him as the finest goalkeeper he has ever played with.
“I'm very friendly with Gordon, and he's obviously somebody who is known all over the world, not just in this area,” said Hunt.
“Everybody knows Gordon Banks, and when he played he was the best goalkeeper in the world.
“I'd say his anticipation was one of his biggest strengths, but in truth he didn't really have a weakness.”
The Golf Classic has raised almost £100,000 for charity during its seven-year existence, and is organised by Stephanie Edwards and Sam Humphries, of Edge Models.
The money raised from this year's event will be split between the North Staffs Emergency Access Fund and the Macmillan Nurses at Home charity.
Notable participants on the fairways included England's 1966 reserve goalkeeper Ron Flowers and former Stoke defender Mike Bernard, although Sir Bobby Charlton and Nobby Stiles were forced to pull out at the last minute due to other commitments.
The Potters' director of football John Rudge also took part, along with City chief executive Tony Scholes and director Keith Humphries, while Stoke chairman Peter Coates and manager Tony Pulis attended the event's evening entertainment, which included a charity auction.
Stoke legend Banks was unable to play himself following a shoulder operation, but he felt the day had been a terrific success.
“Everyone who gets involved enjoys the day, and it helps out the charities which the golf club and I support,” said Banks.
“I am disappointed not to be playing myself, but it won't be long before I'm back on the course, and I can't wait to play in next year's event.”
TO see Banksy at the golf day, log on at www.thisisthesentinel.co.uk/banksy
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