POTTERS SIGN PEARSON

Stoke City have signed midfielder Ben Pearson from AFC Bournemouth, with the 28-year-old penning a four-year contract at the bet365 Stadium.

Pearson spent the final four months of the 2022/23 season in the Potteries, becoming a firm fans’ favourite over the course of 14 fixtures in red and white.

A graduate of Manchester United’s Academy, Pearson spent five years at Preston North End where he played 158 Championship games prior to a move to Bournemouth in 2021.

Pearson helped the Cherries win promotion to the Premier League in his first full season at the Vitality Stadium before reuniting with his former North End manager, Alex Neil, at City in January.

“Bringing Ben back to the Club on a permanent basis was a priority in our recruitment this summer,” said Stoke City Technical Director Ricky Martin.

“He knows what it takes to win in the Championship having been successful with Preston and Bournemouth. He also thrives off working with Alex and is well suited to the high tempo football we want to play.

“We’re aiming to build a culture whereby the supporters feel a connection with the players and vice versa.