New Stoke deal for Delap

Stoke midfielder Rory Delap has signed a one-year contract extension to remain at the Premier League club until 2011.

Delap, who turned 33 earlier this month, played a key role in helping the Potters retain their top-flight status at the first time of asking last season when he made 36 appearances.

The former Republic of Ireland international, whose unique attacking threat from long throws, affectionately known as "Delapidatators", provided headaches for opposition defences last term, was pleased to agree a new deal.

“I’m delighted to sign for an extra year,” he told the club’s official website, www.stokecityfc.com.

“I said before that I’d like to stay here for as long as I can, and for as long as I feel fit.

“I think we exceeded everybody’s expectations last year, apart from our own, and we’ve got to do it all again next year.”

Delap joined Stoke from Sunderland following a loan spell at the club in 2006, with his performances last season earning him the ’Coaching Staff’s Player-of-the-Season’ award.

“We’re very pleased that Rory has agreed to sign an extension to his contract to keep him here for another year,” Stoke chief executive Tony Scholes added.

“He was an important player in Tony Pulis’ squad last season and helped us maintain our Premier League status.”