Wilkinson warns team-mates

Stoke City defender Andy Wilkinson has vowed not to give up his regular starting berth without a fight. Wilkinson has impressed for the Potters of late after being called upon by manager Tony Pulis.In January, the 24-year-old signed a new contract with his boyhood club, and Wilkinson is hopeful he will be a permanent fixture at the Britannia Stadium for seasons to come.He said: "I made my debut for Stoke in 2001, so it's fair to say it has taken a long time for me to make my mark.Battle"But I've just kept my head down, kept learning off the senior players and remained focused on what I wanted to do."My aim was always to play regularly for Stoke City because this is my local team and I love it here."To play in the top flight for Stoke makes it extra special and having to fight so hard for my place is not a problem to me."I finally got my big chance when Andy Griffin got injured and I'm relishing the battle for my position. I'm winning that battle at the moment and it feels great."

Source: SKY_Sports