PEARSON'S KEY STOKE ROLE

Midfielder says he's determined to use his experience to keep Potters in the hunt for promotion

- Peter Smith

TOP MAN: Ben Pearson has been in fine form in the middle of the Stoke midfield in recent times.

BEN Pearson hopes he is helping to instil a winning culture at Stoke City as he finds his best form again.

The 30-year-old midfielder had missed large chunks of the last two seasons but, having been eased back into the thick of things by manager Mark Robins, he has been an important figure this term as the Potters try to sustain a top six push. He is getting through games and playing with a smile on his face, trying to help those around him in a season when every point will be important.

“I’m in decent form, which helps,” said Pearson, who is preparing for a home match against QPR on Saturday (3pm).

“Confidence is a big thing in football and being in a team that is confident helps, knowing my role and what the manager expects has helped me this season.

“I’m going into games thinking I can make a difference and help the team.”

He added: “I’m probably one of the older players. First of all I have to concentrate on what I can do and need to do but it’s also about communication.