Stoke City striker Mamady Sidibe says he's up for any battle to win a place back in Tony Pulis' XI.

The Mali international damaged his cruciate ligament in March and travelled to France for surgery to correct the problem during pre-season.

"The squad is very big now and there are lots of good players, especially up front," he said.

"That's what you expect in the Premier League, you need people challenging for places.

"I think everyone in the squad has a part to play and that challenge can be good for everyone, to help us improve."