Stoke manager Tony Pulis is confident Gerry Taggart will sign a new deal after the former Northern Ireland international reported for pre-season training this week.
The 33-year-old, has yet to agree new terms at the Britannia Stadium after making an outstanding impact last term. But Pulis insists he has no fears about losing a player he sees as a crucial part of Stoke's promotion challenge. The Potters boss said: "We are trying to get the situation sorted. He is training with us at the moment and we are talking to his agent about the terms of the deal.
"It is all down to whether we can come to some sort of an agreement, but I don't think anything will get in the way of it. Right now it is just a case of John (Rudge) talking it through."
Taggart's powerful performances in the heart of Stoke's defence sparked a revival in the second half of the season. Securing his services is now a priority for Rudge and Pulis, who will be desperate not to lose another star name after the departure of Kris Commons.
