Kemp wants Potters to stay on the upgrade

ASSISTANT manager Dave Kemp is anticipating a stiff test at Ewood Park as Stoke aim to build on one of the greatest years in their history with a winning start to 2012.

In addition to securing a fourth consecutive season of Premier League football, the Potters reached their maiden FA Cup final in 2011, which in turn led to a first European campaign in almost four decades.

A mouth watering last-32 tie against Valencia awaits when the Europa League resumes in February but first Stoke must seek to consolidate their top-half place in the league.