Stoke City Football Club News

• Nickname:Potters
• Founded:1863
• Manager:Tony Pulis

• Ground:Britannia Stadium
• Capacity:28,218

Pulis has faith in Simonsen

02 Jul 2008 - 16:11:54

Click To Enlarge

Stoke City boss Tony Pulis insists Steve Simonsen has a key part to play in his plans for the forthcoming Premier League season.

The 29-year-old former Everton goalkeeper has made 170 appearances for the Potters but lost his starting spot to loanee Carlo Nash in the final two months of last season.

However, Pulis has backed Simonsen to bounce back, telling The Sentinel: "Steve played continuously for three-and-a-half to four years after joining this football club. I felt he looked tired.

"But when I brought in Carlo Nash on loan last season, Steve's attitude was brilliant. He'll be a very important part of the team here."

Meanwhile, Pulis has decided not sign Derby County midfielder Stephen Pearson on a permanent basis.

The Scot moved to the Britannia Stadium in March on loan but started only three matches for the club as they won promotion from the Championship.