Liam Lawrence believes promotion is there for the taking but insists the squad mustn't get carried away.

The City winger came off the bench and secured Saturday's victory at Coventry to send the Potters back to the top of the table, and although the club may not be in pole position come Saturday, he is still confident that the destiny of the club is in their own hands.

Speaking exclusively to Stoke City World, Lawrence said: "I've got my fingers crossed, I'm touching wood every day!

"I don't like to talk about us going up but we're in touching distance."

The 26 year old scored the winner with little over ten minutes remaining and feels that the three points were a big step towards automatic promotion.

"The win was massive.

"It was all about getting the result no matter what and I don't think we could have even afforded a draw.

"I just remember the ball dropping after Cressy went through and I wasn't sure whether to take a touch or hit it.

"Luckily my brain said hit it so I did and it went in.

"To get the win is fantastic."

West Brom and Hull both play tomorrow night and have a chance to go ahead of the Potters, but Lawrence thinks there is still everything to play for as all the top teams have been dropping points of late.

"There are still games in hand to be played so we'll keep our fingers crossed.

"It's been in our hands in the last six weeks or so.

"The lads think we should be six or seven points clear by now but it's not to be and it's going to be a close one."

The former Sunderland midfielder wasn't risked from the start at the Ricoh Arena but assures the fans he is on the mend and will be fighting fit for the weekend.

"The manager spoke to me before the game and asked me about it.

"I was desperate to play but it was good judgement for him again.

"He kept me out until he needed me and luckily its worked out for us.

"My groin was fine but in the last few minutes I was huffing and puffing a bit because I've not trained all week to keep myself fresh. 

"It started to ache a tiny bit but it'll be alright for Saturday and I'll be ready to go.

"The next game is massive for us and hopefully we'll get a full house."

The Potters host Bristol City on Saturday with tickets available now from the Britannia Stadium Ticket Office, the Potteries Shopping Centre Club Shop, www.scfcdirect.com or via phone on 0871 663 2007.