Upon their promotion six years ago, Stoke City was not an enticing prospect. While they have managed to reach an FA Cup final, and feature in the latter stages of the Europa League since, their stock has considerably grown, and are now able to attract the likes of Bojan Krkic and Mame Diouf. However, six years ago, it proved tough for Tony Pulis as he was forced to settle for the likes of Dave Kitson, Danny Higginbotham and Seyi Olofinjana. Even at 34 years old, Liverpool stalwart Sami Hyypia proved a bridge too far for the newly-promoted side. The Potters offered £2.5 million for the Finnish veteran with a week remaining of the summer transfer window in 2008, but Rafa Benitez flatly rejected it. Citing his wealth of experience as vital to his squad, the Spaniard chose to keep the stalwart within his ranks, with Hyypia staying with the Reds for another year. Despite his age, one would think that he would have been a stellar short-term signing for the Potters. However, such was the partnership of Abdoulaye Faye and Ryan Shawcross at the back, Pulis' side certainly didn't miss the Finn that much, as they finished in a respectable 12th position.
Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future.
Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.
