Shawcross thanks supporters

STOKE defender Ryan Shawcross yesterday revealed messages of support from Alex Ferguson and Steven Gerrard helped lift his spirits following the tackle which broke Aaron Ramsey’s leg.

Ferguson called Shawcross after United’s Carling Cup final victory over Aston Villa – the day after Stoke’s game.

Gerrard, who was captain of the England squad the defender had just been called up to, sent a text message welcoming him into Fabio Capello’s group and asking about his welfare. Shawcross insists he has now moved on from that night at the Britannia Stadium and is ready for a return to action against Tottenham on Saturday after serving his three-match ban.