Lambert's praise for Pulis and Stoke

City boss Paul Lambert has praised Stoke City and their manager Tony Pulis ahead of tomorrow's meeting between the two sides at Carrow Road.

The Potters have developed somewhat of a reputation for being an extremely physical side and playing what is politely referred to as 'hoofball', but the Canary chief told the Mirror he feels that is unfair.

'Stoke - in my opinion, wrongly - get accused of being over-physical but they can play football a bit as well and know how to win games,' he said.

'I watched them against Chelsea last weekend and I thought they were excellent against a side who are one of the favourites to win the league.

'Chelsea found them a real handful. There's a lot more to them than just the strong, physical side. They really know how to play the game.'

Stoke are now in their fourth year back in the top flight of English football, and qualified for the Europa League after reaching the FA Cup final thanks to Manchester City claiming a Champions League spot.

They are now firmly established as a Premier League side, and Lambert hopes his Canaries can follow in their footsteps.

'They have done fantastically well under Tony Pulis and what they have achieved is something we can really aspire to as we try to stay in this league,' he added.

'They have improved every year, which is what we have to do, and they had a fantastic season last year. The whole infrastructure of the club is very good and they are a terrific example for us.'

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