Stoke City boss Tony Pulis paid tribute to Seyi Olofinjana after defeat to Hull City on Sunday.
Olofinjana left the Britannia Stadium in a £3million deal in the summer.
The Nigerian fell down the Potters' pecking order after starting their first 13 games last season.
Pulis said: "He's a fantastic kid, I'm really pleased for him.
"He's a real genuine kid, one of the nicest people I have met in football, a top lad.
"Seyi scored a great goal, but for the second goal Thomas most probably should have done better."