Cresswell eyes striking role

Cresswell: Prefers to play up front

Richard Cresswell has urged Stoke City manager Tony Pulis to provide him with further opportunities to shine in a striking role this season.

The 30-year-old was on target for the Potters in their recent 3-2 Carling Cup win against Cheltenham Town and has appeared in each of the club's three opening Premier League matches.

Cresswell operated as a left midfielder for the majority of last term, but is hopeful he will be deployed in a more advanced position throughout the current campaign.

He told The Sentinel: "That (striker) is my best position. I did a job out on the left last season and scored 12 goals.

"I've played up front in the Premier League. It was a long time ago, but I have improved since then.

"Hopefully I can play my part in trying to keep this club in the top flight. If I get the chance, I have to take it."

He added: "The manager has put a good squad together. It's a massive squad now, so he is going to have a few headaches over who to pick. It is up to the players to show him they want to get in that team."