James Beattie insists that he never doubted his ability to make a successful return to the top flight after a disappointing spell with Everton. Beattie moved to ChampionshipSheffield United until Stoke boss Tony Pulis took the gamble of bringing him back to the Premier League in January.

The 31-year-old has now grabbed five goals in seven appearances for the Potters.

"Leaving was hard to take but I'll say this: there has never been a second that I didn't think I was a Premier League footballer," Beattie told the Daily Mail.

"Loads of people have written me off and said I'm no good. But I don't think I've got anything to prove to anybody."