Pulis will hang on to Owen

Manager Tony Pulis says Michael Owen will see out his Stoke City contract, which expires at the end of the season.

The misfiring former England international is yet to score for the Potters and has only appeared four times this season due to a series of injuries.

Pulis told reporters: “Michael Owen’s got a contract here until the end of the season, and neither us nor him want to change that.

“If we do any business, we’ll do it the way we usually do. There’s been interest from clubs for our players. It’s a silly season.”

Pulis is currently preparing for Saturday’s game which sees his side welcome Rafael Benitez’s Chelsea to the Britannia Stadium.

“I was at Chelsea last night and it’s a real cup game. Swansea got two chances, and scored two goals. A great result for them,” he said.

“I think the job that Rafa Benitez did at Liverpool was absolutely first class. I think he’s a top manager.

“I think the players Chelsea have got in their team, they could go anywhere and win. It’s got the makings of a great game.

“It’s very special for this football club to welcome the European champions to the Britannia Stadium.”