Stoke defender Robert Huth signs contract to stay until 2016

Robert Huth scored five times for Stoke City last season

Robert Huth has committed himself to Stoke City until 2016 by signing a contract extension.

The Germany international defender, 27, was Stoke's record buy when manager Tony Pulis signed him from Middlesbrough for £6m in 2009.

Huth had 12 months left on his current deal, but agreed a three-year extension to stay at the Britannia Stadium.

"I am delighted that it has all been sorted out before the start of the season," he said.

"I've had a fantastic time here, the best three years of my career."

The centre-back, who was Stoke's player of the year in 2011, made his Premier League debut for Chelsea in 2002 at the age of 17.

He won two Premier League titles at Stamford Bridge under Jose Mourinho, but found his first-team opportunities limited, and moved to Middlesbrough in 2006.

In 2010, he helped Stoke to their highest league finish in 29 years, then played a part in the club's run to the FA Cup final 12 months later and their push to the last 32 of the Europa League last season.

Pulis said: "Huthy stands out as one of the best signings this club has made since we were promoted to the Premier League, so it's fantastic news that he is staying put for the long term.

"It's a massive boost for us all and I know our supporters will be especially pleased because they have really taken to him since he joined us.

"They love the committed way he approaches the game and that is one of his many attributes."

Huth has made 130 appearances in his three years at Stoke, scoring 17 goals.

Stoke chief executive Tony Scholes added: "Robert has been an integral part of our success over the past three years.

"Extending his contract was more important to us than making a major new signing, as with Robert we know what we've got and what an important part of the team he is."