Pennant keen on Stoke stay

15 November 2010 11:30

Jermaine Pennant would like to sign for Stoke permanently when his loan deal with the club runs out in January.

Pennant has put in some eye-catching displays since joining the Potters from Spanish side Real Zaragoza in August, not least on Saturday when his former employers Liverpool were beaten 2-0 at the Britannia Stadium. The winger seems to be rediscovering his best form under Tony Pulis and is ready to extend his stay with the Staffordshire outfit.

"I'm enjoying myself and the way things are going here, if the two clubs can agree something in January then I'll be more than happy to put pen to paper," Pennant told the Sentinel. "The manager has given me that platform to go and do what I can do."

He added: "He's told me he wants workrate off his wingers. He says they work harder than at any club in the league - and they definitely do. If I can do that to help out the team, then brilliant."

The Liverpool result made it two home victories in five days for Stoke following Tuesday's 3-2 triumph over Birmingham, another of Pennant's former sides.

The Britannia has been something of a fortress for the Potters in recent years and the 27-year-old has been impressed with the atmosphere generated there by the club's fans.

"I love it. When the crowd gets going here it's brilliant. It makes the hair stand up on the back of my neck," Pennant said.

"That's what every professional loves about the atmosphere in football. The way the supporters carried on and celebrated was magnificent."

He added: "Our home games were always going to be the strongest part of our season. The fans make a massive difference and the big teams seem to struggle when they come here.

"I've had a good week playing two ex-teams and winning on both occasions. But more importantly this is another three points for Stoke."

Source: PA