Mark Hughes pleased with Jermaine Pennant

Stoke City boss Mark Hughes has revealed that he is pleased with his decision to keep Jermaine Pennant.

The former Liverpool winger had been heading for the exit door after falling out of favour with previous boss Tony Pulis.

However, Hughes decided to give the 30-year-old a new deal and has been impressed with his attitude.

"We had a list of players being released, and because he was out of contract, his name was on it," Hughes told reporters.

"I told him my intention was to keep him. I had a man-to-man conversation and asked him where he wanted to be.

"Since I've been here, he's worked exceptionally hard and I've been really pleased with what I've seen, and I can only judge people on what I find."

Stoke take on Premier League newcomers Crystal Palace at 3pm today.