City striker Vincent Pericard is adamant he has a role to play in City's debut Premier League campaign, which kicks off in just 11 days time.

The French born striker fired home a spectacular strike during the 3-2 victory at St Mary's and afterwards he immediately declared his hunger for more.

"I am delighted with that goal and I was very happy with my performance," he exclusively told Stoke City World.

"Strikers get judged on goals and how they perform, and I know I haven't had the best two years here because of injuries and prison, but I am determined to prove I am as good as the other strikers if not better.

"I have worked very hard this pre-season, and put in a lot of extra work because I have a point to prove.

"It was good tonight because I showed I am a good player and I can cause problems in the oppositions box."

The former Juventus youngster is entering the final twelve months of his contract, and he admits he has to show what he is capable of if he is to extend his stay at the Britannia Stadium.

"My contract runs out at the end of this season, and I want to score the goals which help keep us up and then earn a new contract.

"Like I said, I know I have to prove some people wrong, and I believe I can do that.

"I'm working hard and hopefully I can continue the form on from tonight on Friday and try and get myself in the managers thoughts for the Bolton game."