Huth pens new deal with Stoke

Stoke defender Robert Huth has agreed a three-year contract extension with the club, keeping him at the Britannia Stadium until 2016.

Having already made 130 appearances for the Potters, Huth has scored 17 goals since his 2009 move from Middlesbrough for what was then a club record fee of six million pounds.

Huth had one year remaining on his contract, but the club was keen to extend the German’s deal before the beginning of the 2012-13 Premier League season.

“I am delighted that it has all been sorted out before the start of the season,” Huth told the club’s official website.

“I’ve had a fantastic time here, the best three years of my career. It’s been great to play a big part in the club’s progress over that period, but also to gain some personal recognition with the Player of the Year awards which I won at the end of the last two seasons.

“I have ambitions in the game and I am relishing the chance to achieve them here at this football club, so I can’t wait for the new season to come around.”

Stoke manager Tony Pulis was delighted to secure Huth’s future as the Potters prepare to improve on their 14th-place finish from the previous season.

“Huthy stands out as one of the best signings this club has made since we were promoted to the Premier League, so it’s fantastic news that he is staying put for the long term,” Pulis said.

“It’s a massive boost for us all and I know our supporters will be especially pleased because they have really taken to him since he joined us. They love the committed way he approaches the game and that is one of his many attributes.”