Potters Preparing For A Better Season

Last updated : 28 July 2003 By
Akinbyi Heads Home Stoke's Winner Against Reading, The Goal That Kept The Potters Up
The Potters escaped relegation on the final day of last season by beating promotion chasing Reading 1-0 at home, thanks to a second half header from Adi Akinbyi infront of 20,000 supporters.

There has been a fair bit of transfer activity this summer at The Britannia Stadium, with Tony Pulis bringing in three new signings so far as they aim to build on their success of staying in the First Division last season, and push on for a better season this time around.

He was swooped for defender Clint Hill from Oldham Athletic, powerful striker Gifton Noel Williams has arrived on a free transfer from Watford and also arriving is midfield livewire John Eustace from Coventry City.

While heading out the door have been Lee Mills who has joined Telford, promising midfielder James O'Connor has moved to WBA, striker Andy Cooke has move to Pusan Icons in Korea, defender Sergi Shtaniuk departed to return to Russia, and finally Finnish keeper Jari Viander, who has been loaned out to FC Midtjylland.

NCM One To Watch - Gifton Noel Williams
The powerful striker arrived at The Britannia Stadium this summer following his release by Watford, and will be looking to make a good first impression infront of the Stoke fans tomorrow.

He has experience of Premier League football from his spell at Watford, and his powerful runs and heading ability should see him bag a fair few goals for The Potters this season.