Pulis Signs!

Last updated : 15 April 2005 By Rob Stanway

Months of speculation have included the names of Toddi Orlygson (ex City favourite) and John Gregory but the chairman today confirmed that it will be Tony Pulis moving the team forward for the next 12 months at least.

Gunnar Þór Gíslason told the official Stoke City press release: "We are delighted the manager has agreed to stay and has signed a new contract.

"The team has made steady progress under Tony for the last three seasons and, although we are naturally disappointed to have just missed out on the play-offs this time, we should not lose sight of the fact that this was the first season since we were promoted in 2002 that we have never been worried by relegation.

"That has to be seen as a positive step and evidence that we are moving ever closer to becoming a side capable of challenging strongly for promotion."

He signs a 12 month rolling contract.