Stoke Born Shotton Is Proud To Be A Potter

Ryan Shotton was thrilled to be placed in the starting line-up against Cardiff City in the FA Cup Third Round, describing it as a ‘one of my proudest moments`. Even though the tie against the npower Championship Bluebirds only brought a 1-1 draw and a trip to Cardiff for a replay.

Tony Pulis decided to include the 22-year-old on Saturday, after only managing two previous appearances for Stoke, both of which were in the Carling Cup. Most recently was against Leyton Orient at Brisbane Road in the Third Round last season. Ryan was subbed for Andy Griffin not long into the second half, and Kitson struck home during extra-time to clinch a 1-0 victory.

Speaking of his excitement, Shotton told the official site: ‘It was absolutely unbelievable really when the gaffer told me I was in the team, and it was such a proud moment for me. He named his team and I was in there and it was such a surreal moment when I heard him tell me the news.”

The Fenton-born defender hasn`t broke into the Potter`s Premier League squad yet, but he certainly looks like one for the future. He has pace, strength, and even a long throw which are qualities that Pulis will want to savour and develop.

Ryan has spent most of his time so far out on loan as he gains more playing experience. After signing a professional contract with Stoke, he was loaned out to Altrincham for one season during the 07-08 campaign, making 36 appearances. He has also had spells at Tranmere Rovers and Barnsley.

Shotton put in a good performance against Cardiff, but was disappointed about the result: “I thought there was only one team in the game to be quite honest with you. We hit the bar twice, had numerous other chances and I can`t really recall them causing us too many problems at all after they scored early on.”

The Potters now face a third round replay at the Cardiff City Stadium next Tuesday night with the prospect of a fourth round trip to either Doncaster or Wolverhampton, but Shotton is feeling confident: “We will have to stand firm and play our normal game down there. If we do that then I believe we will get the results we want and secure ourselves a spot in the next round.”

I say Ryan Shotton has fantastic potential for the club. If he gets more league experience, preferably at a Championship side, then he will certainly be on the way to contending for a place in the first team, and eventually making his Premier League debut. His long throw ability will also plead a good case for his place in the squad, although obviously that isn`t the most important thing.

I was pleased with his performance against Cardiff and he carries on, perhaps in the future he`ll be given a ‘surreal moment` every week!