Mark Hughes says he is focused on getting Stoke City back into the Premier League top-10 this season.

Hughes took charge at the bet365 Stadium back in 2013 and he guided Stoke to three consecutive ninth-place finishes whilst also taking the club to the semi-final of the 2016 League Cup.

Last season was a disappointment for the Potters, who ended up in 13th position, and the former Wales international came under heavy criticism from supporters for the poor performances.

The 53-year-old has been active in the summer transfer market, signing Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, Josh Tymon, Darren Fletcher and Kurt Zouma whilst a deal for Porto's Bruno Martins Indi is close.

Hughes is looking forward to the new campaign and, although admitting competition will be as fierce as ever, he insists the aim is to get the club back into the top-10.

"It's really difficult to break through," he said. "Since I've been at the club I have managed to raise expectations and then people get disappointed, but it doesn't stop us wanting to get better year on year and we will be trying to get back into the top 10."