Stoke City boss Tony Pulis has called for a reality check from fans after defeat to West Ham United.

Pulis is falling victim to his own success as patience at the Britannia Stadium wears thin - his substitutions were met with ironic cheers.

But Pulis said: "You have to accept there is going to be criticism.

"It's such a tough job at this level. The fans want improvement year after year. But someone has to take a reality check now and again.

"I watched Bolton last Tuesday. I saw Wolves play in a relegation fight in the Championship - and Blackburn. Three clubs who've been relegated and we are fortunate to be where we are."