Simonsen extends City deal

Former Everton number one Simonsen signed for the Potters three years ago and has been a big success for the Championship club.

"I am delighted to extend my stay with the club for another two years," he told City's official website.

"I am an ambitious person and I am happy to be at a club which shares my ambition.

"The club have been thwarted so far in the transfer market, but I know the management are working tirelessly to get some new players in.

"Morale in the squad is high, and we are looking to build on the last three years and improve even more this season."

Simonsen broke the club's clean sheet record in the last campaign under Tony Pulis.

Stoke chief executive Tony Scholes said of the news: "Steve has been a very important member of the squad since he joined.

"He is an outstanding professional and it is great news that we have signed him up for another two years."

Stoke finished eighth last season, only two points and places outside the play-offs.