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SHAQ POWER

Mark Hughes hails ‘superb’ Xherdan Shaqiri’s impact after heroics at Hull have Stoke on march up Premier League

Potters manager says Swiss star is shining now after becoming accustomed to life in the Premier League

STOKE boss Mark Hughes hailed his side’s Shaq Power after his men took another step up the table with victory over Hull.

Swiss midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri was the hero for the Potters as his brace sealed a 2-0 away win on Saturday.

 Stoke City boss Mark Hughes has hailed Xherdan Shaqiri's performance against Hull
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Stoke City boss Mark Hughes has hailed Xherdan Shaqiri's performance against HullCredit: Reuters

His strikes, one of which is a likely contender for goal of the month from 25 yards, moved Stoke outside the Premier League drop zone.


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The former Bayern Munich man, who signed for the club last year, has missed a chunk of the campaign through injury.

But with him back in the side, Hughes believes his magic will continue to flow.

Hughes said: “Xherdan was absolutely superb for us, just as he has been when he has played this season in all fairness to him.

“We lost him for five or six games through injury, but since he has returned he has really shown that he is now accustomed to the Premier League.”

Speaking to Stoke's website, he added: “We always thought that it may take him a season or so to fully get to grips with what this league offers.

“He is showing signs now that he feels comfortable and knows what it takes to influence games in the right manner.

 Xherdan Shaqiri scored twice for Stoke against Hull
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Xherdan Shaqiri scored twice for Stoke against HullCredit: PA:Press Association
 Xherdan Shaqiri scored his second with a stunning free-kick against Hull
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Xherdan Shaqiri scored his second with a stunning free-kick against HullCredit: Getty Images
 Xherdan Shaqiri netted both goals in the 2-0 victory over Hull
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Xherdan Shaqiri netted both goals in the 2-0 victory over HullCredit: Reuters

“It wasn’t just his two goals that stood out, it was his performance as a whole, he worked for the team and produced several outstanding passes to create opportunities.

“He was a real shining light for us, just as the performance was from the group as a whole - we feel we are in a good place at the moment.”

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