Etherington signs new Stoke deal

Stoke’s pre-season preparations have been boosted after winger Matthew Etherington signed a new four-year contract at the Britannia Stadium.

The 28-year-old joined the Potters from West Ham in January 2009 and has gone on to have a major impact, helping Tony Pulis’ side to an 11th place Barclays Premier League finish last season and winning the club’s Player of the Year award.

Manager Pulis said: “Matty has played a key role in our success since he came here so this is fantastic news for the club.

“Natural left-wingers are like gold dust and we are fortunate to have one of the best in the Premier League who has shown that with his performances for us.”