Stoke City boss Tony Pulis was happy to give Michael Owen minutes in his farewell game for their draw with Southampton.

Owen's final appearance came today away at Southampton, coming on for the final 16 minutes of a hard-fought 1-1 draw on the south coast.

The striker was given a standing ovation by all inside a sold-out St Mary's and, despite having failed to make a league start for Stoke, boss Pulis praised the influence he has had at the Britannia Stadium.

"It was always the plan to bring him on," he said. "He had a great chance in the second half to actually put the icing on the cake.

"If he had scored, I think even the Southampton supporters would have given him a round of applause.

"He got a great reception and he deserves it. He has been a very, very good pro for us and, not just his football side, he is a very, very good family man.

"We're pleased with the year he has been with us. He is good fun to work with, a good person to work with and we wish him all the best for the future."