Stoke defender Stevens signs new one-year contract

Enda Stevens began his career in England with Aston Villa before having further permanent spells with Portsmouth and Sheffield United

Republic of Ireland defender Enda Stevens will stay with Stoke City for another year after signing a new contract with the Championship club.

The 33-year-old left-back was one of several out-of-contract players who have been discussing their futures with Potters boss Steven Schumacher over the last few days and joins midfielder Jordan Thompson in agreeing new terms.

Stevens moved to Stoke from Sheffield United last summer, having spent six years at Bramall Lane.

"I really want to be part of driving Stoke City forward," Stevens told the club website.

“I look at the squad here and see a lot of talented footballers. With the experience the lads gained last season, we are capable of achieving success.”

Stevens was out for more than three months at the turn of the year because of calf and hamstring injuries but returned to the side at the end of March to help steer the Potters to safety as they finished 17th, six points clear of the relegation zone.

"We finished last season strongly and Enda played his part in that," said Stoke sporting director Jonathan Walters.

“He brought quality to our side with and without the ball, as well as the wisdom of having seen everything there is to see at this level, and that helped us immensely in those high-pressure games."