Hugo positive ahead of Stoke test

Hugo Lloris insists possession is key in Saturday’s clash at Stoke.

The home side are in fine form and have won plaudits for their passing style under Mark Hughes, although as Hugo points out, they are still a threat from set-pieces.

“We know their quality on set-pieces but we have to be strong in that area and play our football,” said Hugo. “They have more options now, they can play long or on the floor.

“It’s a tough game but we know we can play our football with good runs, movement and keeping possession of the ball. If we do that, it will help us to stop them creating chances.

“We’ll try to play our football, have a good performance collectively and try to get the three points.”

Hugo says the players are determined to finish the season in a positive manner with our final three matches against Stoke, West Ham and Villa.

“We always have to always be positive for the club and the fans,” he said.

“We all know it’s been a frustrating season for everyone but that’s not a reason not to try and finish as high as possible.

“We have three more games, nine points to aim for and we’ll try to win them all. Then we’ll see where we are at the end of the season.

“It’s also a good opportunity to finish well and you know when you finish a season well, it can give you confidence for the next season.

“We did that last season, we finished strong and deserved a better outcome, but for one or two points. That’s football.

“We can still get 72 points and that’s a reason not to throw it all away. It’s not all negative. We know where we failed but we also know where we did well and we have to finish as high as possible.

“The past is the past. We have to be positive and look forward.”