Stoke City boss Tony Pulis made a European scouting trip on the weekend.

Pulis was back at the Brit yesterday after checking on talent in France on Saturday.

He was on hand to welcome new Academy director Steve Holland for his first day at work today, adding: "I think he's a smashing appointment.

"He will be more of a recruitment officer than a coach, bringing in the best talent, both locally and from the outside."