Patrick Vieira believes Stoke are the new Bolton. The Manchester City new boy is set to meet the Potters three times in quick succession.
Having drawn the FA Cup opener on Saturday, City now head to the Britannia Stadium for a Premier League encounter followed by a Cup replay.
It is a welcome back to England for Vieira, who for the past four-and-a-half seasons has been used to the more cultured approach in Italy.
"There are no teams like that in Italy but I had a few tough moments against Bolton, so I knew what it was going to be like," said the 33-year-old.
"The physical aspect of England is different but don't forget I was at Arsenal for nine years.
"A lot of my game is based on the physical aspect. I enjoy it. In Italy it was different. That is why I am so pleased to come back."
