Erik Pieters does not regret moving to Stoke City two and a half seasons ago even though Netherlands boss Louis van Gaal felt the switch lacked ambition.

And referring to comments made in the summer of 2013 by Van Gaal, now the Manchester United boss, Pieters told The Sentinel: "I remember what he said.

"People still think that Stoke will be relegated at the start of each season. It happened in my first season, second season and third season.

"But in the first season, we had a top-10 finish, the second season we did it again, and we are hoping we can do it three years in a row.

"I'm happy with my choice but I was always confident coming here was the right move. I'm happy with my move and I'm happy with how this season is going."

As for his own personal ambitions, Pieters added: "I want to improve each year. I'm 27 now and I want to get better and better.

"I feel good, the best I've felt in years. It's my best season I've ever played and I hope that continues.

"I feel physically and mentally stronger. A good home helps a lot. I have a beautiful fiancé and she helps me, making sure I do my work, so I keep fit and get better and better.

"At the club as well, I do 100 per cent every time and hopefully that will help me get better and better."