Stoke City No2 Dave Kemp is expecting big things from Wilson Palacios.

The 27-year-old played in the first half of Stoke's friendly against FC Sion on Thursday and is set for a main role during the club's three-game tour of the United States.

"We certainly hope so, that's the plan. He is in among the group working very hard and we hope to see the benefit on the pitch," he told The Sentinel.

"Last season when he came to us he had to get over an injury and we had to get him fit. He was always behind the game and it is unfair to judge him on that.

"Hopefully we will see the benefit of him training with us in pre-season.

"He is a quality player. We want to see the best of him, but I am sure that he also wants to show the best of himself to the Stoke fans.

"I am sure that is what he is working towards."