"We are also aware, however, that there is still lots more to improve upon and we are constantly working towards that."
He believes Stoke can compete with the leading Championship contenders in what promises to be another open dogfight next season.
"You always have to look at the three clubs coming down (Charlton, Sheffield United, Watford) and those with parachute payments, while I would also throw in Leicester, Wolves and Southampton.
"But of course we have a chance. How much better were Birmingham and Sunderland than us last season when they went up automatically?
"Our supporters saw how well we played against these clubs and that is what we must aim for again."