Shawcross signs record long term contract

Stoke captain Ryan Shawcross has signed a new record 5-and-half year deal at the Britannia Stadium.

The 26-year-old has quashed all rumours of a move away from the Potteries by penning a deal which will see him stay at the club until 2018.

The Chester born defender had been rumoured to be on the way out of the Britannia Stadium with Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City or even a return to Manchester United as possible destinations.

Rumours suggest that Shawcross is now joint top earner alongside Peter Crouch on £45k-a-week, which over the 5-and-half years is a massive £13 million.

Manager Tony Pulis told the Guardian: "It's a long contract, Ryan has to get it right, the football club has to get it right, and they've managed to come to an agreement, which is great news for everybody. I think the world of Ryan. I think he's a great lad."

Shawcross signed for Stoke on an initial loan deal in August 2007 before making the deal permanent from Manchester United in January 2008 for £1 million.

He has since became the club captain and won his first international cap for England against Sweden in November.

The signing is seen as a sign of intent from Stoke City`s hierarchy who have voiced several times that the club will not be selling their best assets.

Pulis added: "We've signed Asmir [Begovic], we've signed Marc Wilson and now Ryan. Steven Nzonzi's on a long-term contract, so that's four top young players. And that's what we want to do - keep improving it, keep getting younger players and players who will grow together at the football club.

'We're not going to do what Manchester City has done, we're not going to do a Chelsea, we have to build gradually and steadily, and that's what we've done over the last five years. We'll do it our way, in our fashion. A lot of people don't like it, but who cares.'

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.