Stoke's Final Premier League Position: 13th
This Premier League Review sees Stoke's season assessed, with the Potters enduring a tough season.
Mark Hughes' side came into the season on the back of a 9th placed finish, an excellent campaign and more evidence of Hughes ability to move clubs forward.
It was a season that saw Stoke defy all expectations, the challenge for them was continuing to produce those types of finishes.
Hughes has done an excellent job at the club, he has always produced at clubs like Stoke, mid-table sides looking to move up to the next level.
The calibre of teams in the league is incredible, with sides such as Everton, Southampton and West Brom providing direct competition for Stoke.
Miserable Start
Stoke endured a tough start to the season, with Manchester City, Everton and Spurs in their first four matches.
They won none of their opening seven matches, but then went on a run of three successive wins.
They lost 16 matches in total, that was 1 more than they lost the previous season, the draws really let them down.
Hughes and the board will be looking to learn the lessons and improve this season, with certain players needing to be sold.
With the sides around them looking to strengthen during the summer it is vital that the Potters do the same.
Stoke registered 11 wins during the course of the season, level pegging with Burnley and Watford.
They finished 49 points behind Antonio Conte's side, registering under half of their total points.
Cup Failures
Stoke have had a mixed run in the cups this season, losing to Hull City in the early stages of the EFL Cup.
They also exited the FA Cup at the first time of asking, losing 2-0 at home against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Along with the inconsistent form in the league their cup performances have been poor, this is another growing inditement of the lack of respect that the domestic cups get.
Top Stats
Peter Crouch ended as the club's top Premier League scorer, with the veteran striker scoring 7 goals and winning the most aerial battles (171).
Marco Arnautovic had the most assists (5), as well as scoring six goals but that is a modest return for a top level striker.
Joe Allen enjoyed an excellent all-round season, with six goals, three assists, 1286 passes and 62 interceptions.
Ryan Shawcross had the most clearances (227) and Erik Pieters had the most tackles (106).
Their final points tally was 44, that was 7 points less than last season, finishing four places lower.
Overall it's a poor season for Stoke, finishing outside the top ten and showing no cup progression.
Transfer Speculation
Mark Hughes will have a huge job on to rebuild after this poor season, they will need to buy carefully and cut accordingly.
The main issue for Stoke will be buying high-quality players to progress, and ones to match their style.
They have yet to make any signings of note, they will also need to consider offers for under performing players.
Their biggest issue will be holding onto their key players, with Xheridan Shaqiri linked with a move away.
They will need to address their lack of goals, the return to fitness of Jack Butland will be like having a new signing.
Betting Tips
To win the 17/18 Premier League outright @ 750/1
A Top Ten Finish @ 7/4
To win the Carabao Cup 17/18 @ 33/1
To win the FA Cup 17/18 @ 40/1