Stoke City boss Tony Pulis is keen to see James Beattie carry on scoring ahead of their clash with Everton.

"James settled here straight away and scoring early goals certainly helped in that respect," said Pulis. "Doing so well so soon has got the supporters loving him and he's a tremendous character to have around the place.

"He's larger than life and his personality has lifted everybody here, both in the dressing room and out on the field."

Beattie, who could prove to be the bargain of the January transfer window, would no doubt enjoy scoring on his return to Everton.

But Pulis added: "I'm sure James would tell you it's about Stoke City and not just about him.

"He's been a bargain so far and we've been delighted with him, but there are still 10 games to go. If he scores another five or six goals, that would be fantastic.

"James and the rest of us are under no illusions about how difficult Saturday's game is going to be for us.

"It's going to be one of the toughest fixtures we've got left. Everton are a very powerful team and they've also got the ability to play against the more silky sides.

"It adds up to a great blend and David Moyes continues to do a great job there."