Asmir after clean sheets

ASMIR BEGOVIC is targetting a fourth successive clean sheet as Stoke City prepare for Thursday night's Europa League Play-Off tie against FC Thun.

The Bosnian international was in the City squad which flew out to Switzerland today to prepare for the first leg against the current Swiss Premier League leaders, knowing full well that it will be as tough, if not tougher than it was in Croatia two weeks ago.

Begovic kept clean sheets in both legs of the third qualifying round triumph over Hajduk Split and his outstanding second half display ensured that Chelsea drew a blank in the Barclays Premier League opener at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

FC Thun's emphatic 5-2 victory against FC Lausanne Sport at the weekend will have given them confidence, however, City's goalkeeper believes they can keep them at bay if they display the same determination they showed against Chelsea.

"From a defensive point of view, we have been superb so far, so we will go there confident of producing another solid performance," he told stokecityfc.com.

"It will be tough, we know that. There are no easy rides anywhere when you are playing home or away in European competition.

"They are flying at the moment, but we are confident too. We beat a very good Hajduk Split side 2-0 in the last round and held Chelsea to a draw on Sunday, so we are going there looking to put ourselves in the driving seat."

Tony Pulis is expected to name the Bosnian international in his starting eleven after securing himself the number one spot during pre-season.

But whilst the 24-year-old acknowledges that the additional fixtures in the Europa League will bring with it extra stresses and strains on the body, he says that pitting his skills against European opposition makes it all worthwhile.

"It's fantastic to be involved in these competitions - it's what you aim for as a youngster, so of course you want to play in as many games as possible," he said.

"There is competition for places now and nothing is guaranteed, but I'm obviously hoping to keep my place in the team and help the Club to another successful season."


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