Pulis backs Begovic against Everton

Stoke City manager Tony Pulis has given his under-fire goalkeeper Asmir Begovic a vote of confidence ahead of their New Year’s Day clash at home to Everton.

The 23-year-old Bosnian stopper was strongly criticised for allowing Chris Baird’s second goal to squeeze past him in Tuesday’s defeat by Fulham.

But Pulis confirmed Begovic would be his first choice ‘keeper against Everton on Saturday and there would be no recall for Danish international Thomas Sorensen.

“Asmir has done very well for us since coming into the side,” Pulis said.

“He has taken his chance after Thomas suffered an elbow injury and we’ve been more than pleased with him.”

“We’ve also been very pleased with Thomas’ attitude because he has been helping Asmir on the training field and they work very well together. Thomas has shown what an excellent professional he is.”

Winger Matthew Etherington and full-back Andy Wilkinson, who were both substituted against Fulham with slight knee injuries, are expected to be fit after two days of treatment and rest.

“They should be okay and we’ve gone very easy on all of the players after they played twice in three days,” Pulis said.

“We gave them Wednesday off and we will only be doing some light work between now and when we kick-off against Everton.”

“It’s going to be a tough game and the Fulham match confirmed there are no easy pickings in the Premier League.”

“I knew that all along and if our players needed reminding they know now.”

“We gave Fulham a two goal start and you can’t give that to anyone in what is a very unforgiving division.

“Everton have got some excellent players and a first-class manager in David Moyes.”

“I’m sure they will finish the season in a higher position than they are in now.”

Jermaine Pennant will start his first game as a fully-fledged Stoke player after his 2.8 million pounds transfer from Real Zaragoza and Pulis expects to be involved in further transfer activity in January.

“There is likely to be some movement and I’m always keen to freshen things up in January,” he said.

“We will see what is out there and examine every deal on its merits and within the budget of this football club.”