Stoke City manager Tony Pulis has praised the influence of goalscorer Matthew Etherington after Saturday's 1-0 win against Norwich City.

The midfielder's 72nd-minute strike at the Britannia Stadium has moved the Potters up to eighth in the Premier League table.

"For Matty to score is good because it gives him a lot of confidence and that will do him the world of good," Pulis told Sky Sports News.

"Forward players have good times and bad but we have to ride with it. Matty is a top, top player and today he was back to like his best.

"We've had a real, real, busy season against top, top clubs. It takes its toll but the lads have got their heads down the last two weeks and been great."

Stoke visit Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea in the league next Saturday.