Arsenal No2 Steve Bould is a surprise candidate for Tony Pulis' job at Stoke City.

The Sunday Mirror says Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger may face a battle to hang on to his assistant if Pulis leaves the Potters.

Pulis is under mounting ­pressure as Stoke battle against relegation from the Premier League, and could walk away if he is not sacked.

Other than highly-rated Bould, Roberto Di Matteo and Gus Poyet would be considered as potential replacements.

Bould was born in Stoke and made over 200 appearances for his hometown club before joining Arsenal in 1988.