Stoke captain Ryan Shawcross believes Saturday's game against Sunderland signals the start of a season-defining month for the Potters.

A win on Saturday would propel the Potters back up to eighth, which will allow them to focus on upcoming Europa League and FA Cup ties without the fear of being dragged into trouble in the Premier League.

"It's a huge month for us, and in many ways it has shaped up to be the biggest few weeks of the season," Shawcross told the club's official website.

"Obviously, the primary objective is to get those league points on the board as quickly as we can, but we also have three massive games against Valencia and Crawley Town to come, which will determine our season.

"We are in a good position in the league and we are going well in the cup competitions. We know how difficult this month is going to be, but we also know the rewards which are on offer if we can through it unscathed."

Shawcross admits the visit of Sunderland presents a huge challenge for Stoke, who are without a win in their last three Premier League games.

"They have turned things around recently and they are probably the most in-form team in the Premier League at this moment in time.

"Martin (O'Neill) has gone in there and picked them up, and he will want to come here and continue their run of good results.

"But we want to get that win on the board as much as they do, so it promises to be a good game of football."