Stoke City Football Club News

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

• Ground:Britannia Stadium
• Capacity:28,218

Shawcross eyes Potters start

24 Oct 2008 - 07:49:35

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Stoke City centre-half Ryan Shawcross is hopeful of forcing his way back into his club's starting eleven in the near future.

The 21-year-old former Manchester United youngster had not featured in a league game since the opening day of the season, before coming on as a late substitute in the 2-1 win over Spurs on Sunday.

Shawcross told The Sentinel: "It was just great to get back in the team and to be playing in front of a full stadium. It was also great to get a good reception.

"It's been tough not being in the team, but I have grown up a bit from last year when I wasn't in the squad. I've just had to work hard.

"Straight from the off, the manager said nothing was going to happen with me (going out on loan).

"He said I was a Stoke City player and I was staying here. That was good to hear but, of course, I want to play.

"I have been working hard in training and that has paid off with getting back in the squad. Now, hopefully, I can get in the team."