Stoke City director of football John Rudge has said he is well aware that Premier League survival is a huge task.

Rudge said the management team are still searching for experienced players to help the existing squad cope with the rigours of the top flight.

He told BBC Radio Stoke: "We know there is a tremendous gap between the Premier League and the Championship and we've got to bridge that gap.

"It will be a fantastic challenge for everybody at the club."