Stoke boss Tony Pulis has backed record signing Dave Kitson to "work his socks" off to establish the club in the Barclays Premier League.

Pulis smashed the club's transfer record to bring in the 28-year-old striker from Reading for £5.5million. He is the Potters' first signing of the summer as they prepare for life back in the top flight after an absence of 23 years.

Pulis told the club's official website: "He's a natural goalscorer with great ability and one that will work his socks off for the team.

"I've seen a lot of him over the years and have been impressed with his attitude from afar, particularly his ability to adapt to the challenge of moving into higher divisions throughout his career at Cambridge and Reading.

"His Premier League experience over the past two seasons with Reading is also an important asset for us because we need players who've been there.

"I don't believe the size of any fee will trouble him. He'll take all that in his stride."