STOKE CITY star Salif Diao has today revealed he is hopeful of winning his fitness battle in time for this Sunday's live televised clash against Hull City.

The former Liverpool man was forced to miss last weekend's 2-2 draw with Wolves with a slight groin strain, but admits he is on course to return in time to face the Tigers at the KC Stadium.

"Things are progressing well and I definitely have a chance for the Hull game," said the 32-year-old. "A scan didn't show anything major, but we decided to play it safe.

"In the past, when I have tried to play with injuries, I couldn't perform as the manager wanted me to. For example, I had to come off after 20 minutes of our game at Newcastle last season.

"There was no point going out there, maybe coming off after 10 or 15 minutes, and then being out for another two or three weeks - not after I have battled so hard to get fit."

Having only recently returned from a three month injury lay-off, Diao admits it was frustrating not to be on the field on Saturday, but says it was only right to put the team first, rather than himself.

"It was disappointing for me not to be able to play, but it is not about me, it is about the team. I have to be honest with myself, my team-mates and all the other lads who play in the same position as me.

"If I am not 100 per cent fit, it is better to let someone else come in and do the right job."