Jack Butland set to start season as Stoke's first choice

Friday 17 Jul 2015
Jack Butland is set to play a part in Stoke's game with a Singapore XI on Saturday
England goalkeeper Jack Butland is set to start the new season as Stoke City’s number one.

The 21-year-old has linked up with the Potters squad in Singapore after being given a few extra weeks off following his involvement in the Euro U21 Finals earlier this summer.

And boss Mark Hughes has revealed that Butland will be his first choice following the sale of Asmir Begovic to Chelsea.

Jack Butland in action for England Under-21s during the Euro Finals.

Butland captained England Under-21s in the Euro Finals this summer

"The intention is to give Jack Butland a run in the side now," revealed Hughes, ahead of Saturday’s game with a Singapore Select XI in the Asia Trophy.

"He’s a player that we have every confidence in. He’s bided his time and been patient and he’s an outstanding young keeper which is acknowledged right across the board.

"So I think we all feel that his time is now."

Butland joined Stoke from Birmingham City in January 2013 and has spent time on loan with the likes of Barnsley, Leeds United and Derby County.

His performances in last season’s FA Cup run and in the Premier League towards the end of the season have convinced Hughes that the Bristol-born stopper is ready.

And with the recent signing of veteran Shay Given to help Butland’s development and provide experienced back-up, the former Wales and Manchester City boss is happy with the goalkeeping situation at the Britannia Stadium.

"What we do have is a real strength in depth with Shay joining us," he added.

"He has that experience collected from over many, many years which Jack doesn’t have and in terms of shape. He still sees himself very much as a number one keeper and rightly so.

"So he will push Jack, absolutely and that’s exactly why I brought him to the club.

"He’ll push Jack and make sure that if there’s a situation where form dips, which it can do in any position, then we’ve got the experience of Shay to fall back on."

By Nicholas Veevers Content Manager - FA Owned Channels