Stoke City striker Peter Crouch has defended manager Tony Pulis amid the club's poor run of form in the Premier League.

The Potters have slipped down to 11th place in table since Christmas following one win in 11 matches.

"What the gaffer has achieved over nearly seven years, first and foremost in getting the club up and then staying in the Premier League for so long, is immense," Crouch told The Mirror.

"You can look at the squad and season on season it is always better than the year before, and players are happy to sign new contracts, because they can feel the club is always moving forward.

"That's credit to the manager for persuading people to sign contracts, and it is credit especially to the chairman who has been fantastic with the investment he has made in the squad."

Stoke return to league action on Saturday when they face Everton at Goodison Park.