Stoke City manager Tony Pulis admits he has been delighted with the progression of the versatile Ryan Shotton.
The 23-year old youth academy product has found a niche for himself on the right side of midfield, in front of fellow local Andy Wilkinson, with the pairing producing a thrill for Pulis.
"Having him and Wilko, two local lads, on the same side of the pitch is brilliant.
"He's got loads to work on and improve on but he's really enjoyed and relished the games, and he's played in some tough games and done smashing.
"It's great that we've got players who have come through the academy. It helps everything we're trying to do at the football club.""I've taken some stick because I've left Pennant out and played Shotton but I've been really pleased with Ryan," he said ahead of Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final clash with Liverpool.
