Pulis sets Kitson target

21 September 2009 10:38
Stoke City boss Tony Pulis has challenged Dave Kitson to score 15 Premier League goals this season. Following what was a miserable debut campaign at the Britannia Stadium last term, which culminated in his being loaned back to former club Reading, Kitson has silenced his detractors with three goals in four games. Kitson arrived at Stoke last summer from Reading with a hefty price tag and weighty expectations. It was, though, a year of frustration that ensued as he struggled to settle in his new surrounds and failed to score a goal. However, following a bright pre-season Kitson has led Stoke's front line impressively in James Beattie's absence through injury and scored his side's goal in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Bolton. Pulis is refusing to let him rest on his laurels and has set a goal target that he feels is well within his capabilities. "Goals breed confidence, especially with strikers, and I'm sure Kits will get better as he goes along," said Pulis in The Sentinel. "I've also said to him that I think he's fitter than he has been. He never scored last season and that's always a worry, but he's now got three in four this term (including one in the Carling Cup) and we just hope he gets on a run of form to get us 12 to 15 goals this season. "I thought Kits and Ricardo Fuller were lively all game and gave them problems. "I couldn't see Bolton scoring for love nor money, so not winning is an absolute sickener for us and all the supporters who travelled."

Source: SKY_Sports