After an earlier bid for West Brom's Darren Moore was rejected, it appeared as though Clint Hill was set to start alongside Thomas but Pulis was determined to land an old pro for what is likely to be a difficult game against one of the league's promotion favourites.
The move comes as a blow for Hill but Pulis was obviously keen to stick with the formula of an experienced pro to talk Thomas through the game and lead the defence. Duberry should be able to do just that after playing at the highest level with both Leeds and Chelsea.
He is a former England under-21 international but has started just three Championship games this term and will be keen to impress in his spell in the Potteries. John Rudge told the official website, "We are delighted to get him".
In other news, Duberry's former teammate Steve Guppy will remain at the club for the time being at least after he decided to sign up for a further month.