Kemp back at Stoke

Dave Kemp has returned to Stoke as assistant manager following Peter Reid’s recent departure to take charge of Plymouth.

City boss Tony Pulis was left looking for a new number two when Reid landed the manager’s job at Home Park and has turned to Kemp.

He vacated the assistant’s role at Stoke 12 months ago to take up a scouting assignment across North and South America from his California base.

But Kemp has now resumed his partnership with Pulis.

Pulis said: “It’s just as if Kempy has never been away and that makes this such a smooth transition.

“He seemed the natural choice when we were faced with the task of finding a new assistant and I am delighted to have him back here.

“This is such an important role for a manager. You need someone with a wealth of experience in that position who knows the Premier League.

“In that respect, Kempy has so much to offer and it’s good having him around again.

“He has a good eye for what is going on in matches and isn’t scared to voice his views.”