Stoke consider pitch alterations

Stoke City could make their pitch smaller next season as they prepare for life in the Premier League.

The playing surface will be relayed to install a new irrigation system and, at the same time, the pitch could be made shorter and narrower.

Manager Tony Pulis told BBC Radio Stoke: "Shortening it, narrowing it, growing the grass a bit longer, I've had it all thrown at me.

"It's important that we make the Britannia Stadium a fortress."

It is thought the pitch could be made as small as the Premier League will allow, to stifle the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool next season.

Chief executive Tony Scholes added: "It's the manager's decision, we have certain parameters we have to work within.

"He might decide to change things a little, but that's up to him."

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