New skipper Dominic Matteo is hoping boss Tony Pulis continues to deploy him at the heart of midfield.

The 33-year old has started each of City's first four league games, and says he is itching to remain in his favoured position.

Speaking exclusively to stokecityfc.com, he says: "Everyone always says where do I want to play, but as a player it's so frustrating because you just want to get settled in to one position.

"For anyone who is a utility player it is hard because you keep getting moved every week.

"So if I can just staying this position now and make it my own I feel I will improve and be a good player for this club.

"Every position is totally different and it takes a few games to get used to it, but if the gaffer keeps me in the middle I know I am capable of doing a good job."

The Potters have picked up a very creditable seven points from a very difficult opening four games, and the ex Leeds captain says the match at the KC Stadium next week will be no easier.

Saying: "When you go to a place like Hull it is going to be a very tough game.

"They have signed some good players over the summer, and they seem to be quite ambitious.

"Jay Jay Okocha has just signed for them and he is an absolutely great player.

"I played against him in the Premiership and he was outstanding, but if we go there and do our jobs right I'm sure we will get something."

The new Championship campaign has thrown up one or two major surprises already, with Scunthorpe and Blackpool both sitting in the top ten, leaving Matteo believing anything is possible.

"Anyone can beat anyone in this league, that's the beauty of it," he adds.

"If you look at the Premier League, usually the top four teams win every week, whereas this division is wide open.

"The team who is the most consistent over this year will win the league, and hopefully that will be us."