I think we'll need more than that to be honest. I'm convinced at least 1 team will go down with 40 points or more, so 45 points is the minimum required I reckon. http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19...lubNews (Stoke City News)&utm_content=Twitter Tony Pulis insists Stoke will need to demonstrate optimum levels of concentration to beat Arsenal on Wednesday. The Potters boss was a spectator at their recent game against Barcelona which he left totally in awe of their quality. Arsenal go into the game against Stoke knowing that a win against them will narrow Manchester United's lead at the summit to just a point. And after their shock draw against Leyton Orient in the FA Cup, Pulis is mindful a full strength Gunners attack could be unleashed on them. "I went to their game with Barcelona, and it was a fantastic game," he said. "For all of Barcelona's dominance, and they were very dominant at times, Arsenal still had very good chances. Robin van Persie could have scored a hat-trick. "Arsenal will be delighted to be 2-1 ahead and heading out for the return with a great opportunity of going through. It means the second game will be a great one. Level "But in watching that game I can say we're not on their level, I think everybody accepts that. "So we just have to go there and do our best, and that's what we'll do. "We have to be switched on. It's a game we know will be very, very difficult, even if we play at our best. If we don't, then we're in trouble." While Arsenal are dreaming of toppling Barcelona in the Nou Camp, Pulis has his mind firmly fixed on Premier League survival. The mythical 40-point barrier is the target for Pulis whose team currently occupy 10th place but are only six points clear of the relegation zone. On the flip side of that, they are only seven points shy of their target and Pulis is determined for them to reach it sooner rather than later. Opportunity He added: "I've said to the players we've a great opportunity now at the back end of this season. "Although we've some very tough games in the Premier League coming up, we have to get the 40 points, that's massively important for us. "The basis of the Premier League is that you have to get to those 40 points as quick as you can because no-one is safe. "Just look at the table and some of the teams below us who have been in this league for a long time and have more experience than us. "It shows you have no God-given right to be anywhere and accept anything other than the fact you have to get those 40 points as quickly as you can."
Stoke stopped Brighton from playing on Saturday just like they did with Liverpool at home. If Pulis can set the side up to go Arsenal and do the same, we might just have a chance!
You don't say ? Ok I'll explain clearer - If Stoke set out to stop Arsenal playing like Leyton Orient did then we have a chance
We have a chance but I won't be holding my breath, I think it is the first time since we've been in the Premier League that Tone has ever told our lads to actually "go out and get them". I don't think we will be putting out our starting XI but the side we do put out will put in the effort and desire required, we just need luck to fall for us.
Everyone on here knows that I think Tone is an excellent manager but.... This is one thing that annoys me with Tone. How he always sets a goal and announces it to everyone, - let's say we didn't get the 40 points.. then it gives the 'fans' something to rant to him about, and he's automatically 'failed' in all 'fairweather fans' minds
