Jack Butland has said that it felt "fantastic" to feature for Stoke City in the Premier League for the first time in over a year at the weekend.
The goalkeeper, who had a spell on loan with Derby County earlier this season, was picked ahead of regular first-choice Asmir Begovic for Saturday's defeat to Swansea City at the Liberty Stadium.
The 22-year-old told the club's website: "It's always disappointing to lose a game, but speaking from a personal perspective it felt fantastic to be back out there playing Premier League football again.
"It's been a long long time since I last played, too long to be fair, but I have worked hard in training, kept listening to the coaches and waited for my opportunity to come along.
"The manager didn't need to say too much to me before the game because I was ready, prepared and excited to get out on to the pitch again; I just wanted to get out there and enjoy it. Hopefully I can keep my spot in the 11 now; there is even more motivation for me to retain the starting role having played against Swansea at the weekend."
Butland has made five appearances in cup competitions for the Potters this season.
Sian Cowper
