Mark Hughes focused on Stoke beating Watford instead of personal landmark
Mark Hughes is looking forward to his 100th game as Stoke boss but he is more focused on his team's chances of notching a fourth straight win than the personal landmark.
Hughes will bring up his century with Saturday's Barclays Premier League visit of Watford.
When asked on Friday if he hoped to celebrate the occasion with a victory, Hughes said: "You always hope to win, but I'm not too bothered about that kind of landmark.
"I think it's more about focusing on what the team is doing - and we are pleased with that."
The Welshman, sacked in his previous role as QPR manager after less than a year, added: "I do think the fact it is 100 games is good as it means I have lasted a little bit longer than I did in my last job.
"Long may it continue."
Stoke fans have every reason to hope Hughes stays put for some time. So far, he has guided the Potters to two ninth-placed finishes, which is their highest final position in the Premier League.
Although three points from their first six games of 2015-16 represented their worst start to a campaign in the division, if they continue their recent winning streak by beating Watford it will give them 15 points from their opening 10 fixtures - equalling their best tally on that front.
Hughes will make late calls on whether striker Mame Diouf and captain Ryan Shawcross will be involved on Saturday.
Diouf has been on compassionate leave following the death of his mother, while Shawcross' recovery from summer back surgery is nearing completion, with the defender having played 90 minutes for the under-21s earlier this week.
Watford boss Quique Sanchez Flores admits the Hornets must show they can avoid relegation if they want to lure top players to the club.
A busy summer saw Watford make 15 signings in a bid to avoid the drop and they have made an encouraging start, sitting 15th in the table ahead of Saturday's trip to the Britannia Stadium.
Flores admits players are more reluctant to move to a newly-promoted side and says Watford must instead be persuasive with results on the pitch.
"We should not need lots of money, we have to convince players with our performances," Flores said.
"For Watford this year it was very difficult to make a team because I experienced this as Getafe manager 12 years ago, and know how difficult it is to sign amazing players in the first year.
"You have to prove you are able to stay in the division and show you are able to play well and fulfil high expectations.
"After that you can bring in amazing players. This year we have brought good players in but I have to work hard to convince them. In the future it should be easier."
Watford are hoping to have Valon Behrami available as the midfielder has been regaining match fitness following a calf injury.
Fellow midfielder Jose Manuel Jurado is out with a hamstring strain along with defenders Joel Ekstrand (knee) and Tommie Hoban (groin).
Source: PAR
