Stoke City manager Mark Hughes has said midfielder Giannelli Imbula now understands the rigours of the Premier League.

The 24-year-old, who joined the Potters in a club-record deal from Porto in January, has failed to cement his place in Hughes' starting XI this season despite some bright performances last term.

However, Frenchman Imbula was impressive in the 1-0 win over Watford on Sunday, suggesting to Hughes that his time out of the team has helped him realise what is required.

"It was important to get Gianni back involved, he's been unlucky in recent weeks," said Hughes.

"He went out of the side because, in fairness to him, he held his hands up and said his play wasn't up to what was required, among others.

"He's really buckled down and understood what was needed. In fairness his time out of the team enabled him to look and understand what's required in the Premier League.

"I thought he was excellent."