Stoke sign Belgium youngster

Stoke have completed the signing of Belgium youth international Florent Cuvelier from Portsmouth on a two-year contract.

The Potters have beaten off competition from Barclays Premier League rivals Fulham, Tottenham and Manchester City to sign the 17-year-old midfielder.

"Florent is definitely one for the future and we are delighted that he has chosen to move here," said Stoke boss Tony Pulis.

"It's a measure of the club's progress and the emphasis we are placing on the development of the youth set-up that we have managed to attract such an outstanding talent to this club when he attracted so much interest."

"He will work with the Academy initially because he is a young lad with a lot yet to do, but we are pleased to have him here."

Meanwhile, Dave Kemp has returned to Stoke as assistant manager following Peter Reid's recent departure to take charge of Plymouth.

He vacated the assistant's role at Stoke 12 months ago to take up a scouting assignment across North and South America from his California base.

Pulis said: "It's just as if Kempy has never been away and that makes this such a smooth transition. He seemed the natural choice when we were faced with the task of finding a new assistant and I am delighted to have him back here.

"This is such an important role for a manager. You need someone with a wealth of experience in that position who knows the Premier League.

"In that respect, Kempy has so much to offer and it's good having him around again. He has a good eye for what is going on in matches and isn't scared to voice his views."