Asmir Begovic: Stoke have accomplished an unbelievable amount this season

Asmir Begovic,Chelsea vs Stoke City,EPL (Getty Images)

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Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic believes his club have achieved an “unbelievable amount” this season and has revealed that the top priority in 2011-12 is to force their way into the top half of the Premier League.

The Potters fluffed their lines by losing to Wigan on the final day of the 2011 campaign, when just a point would have seen them finish in the top 10, but Begovic believes that disappointment will drive the team on in the future.

“It was a big goal of ours to finish in the top 10, so obviously after the game it was initial disappointment,” the Bosnian international told the club’s official website.

“All of the guys were desperate to go out there and sign the season off with a win, but it wasn’t our day.

“It was disappointing, but when you take a step back and look at the season we have accomplished an unbelievable amount.”

Stoke became the last of the founder members of the Football League to reach the FA Cup final in 2011, and Begovic admits the day out at Wembley was “absolutely fantastic” for the Potters.

“To reach an FA Cup Final was absolutely fantastic for the club, and to stay up was also good achievement for us, especially considering that this was arguably the toughest Premier League for a long, long time,” said the 23-year-old.

“I think the season went extremely well, both personally for me and as a team also.

“It’s been a very enjoyable season to play in. It was my first real full season, so it was a little tiring, but I have loved every minute of it.

“I will enjoy this break now, re-energise myself and then start preparing myself for the new season. I want to get better and better, so it is important to make sure I keep doing the right things, keep learning and keep listening.”