Dave Tattum is one rider short of completing the Stoke line-up for 2010

Stoke Potters promoter Dave Tattum says the team should be challenging for a top-four finish in the Premier League after a disappointing campaign in 2009.

Tattum told BBC Radio Stoke: "I think this team can finish in the top six of the league, maybe even the top four.

"The top four would be absolutely superb, but the top six is acceptable."

The Potters finished fourth-bottom of the Premier League in 2009, despite winning seven and drawing five of their 13 meetings at Loomer Road.

Stoke's away form was their main problem last year, with just one draw from their 13 away meetings.

"We've got riders in there now who have ridden on different tracks, which were their own tracks," said Tattum. "I'm hoping that will stand us in much better stead, because our away form last season was diabolical."

Tattum has made five changes to the line-up so far, with Jason Bunyan the only survivor from the 2009 team.

Bunyan will skipper Stoke when the season gets under way in March, after an impressive debut season with the Staffordshire side.

"Jason's a top man, he'll always give you 110% and he's the first one to be upset if he isn't in double figures on race night," added Tattum.

"I'm glad to have Jason back and I had no hesitation in making him captain of the side."

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