No Buts, Jack to hit top with us

JACK BUTLAND can become a £50million-rated keeper at Stoke City according to his manager Mark Hughes.

The Potters chief says that while the England international (above) is not yet at the level of Manchester United’s David de Gea, reportedly a target for Real Madrid, he could develop into a top-quality performer.

Hughes (right) said: “Jack’s not at De Gea’s level yet but he’s got the potential to be.

“He’s a top Premier League keeper, clearly, but he’s not had the experience – as well as having a real setback in terms of being out for a year.”

Butland broke an ankle playing for England against Germany in Berlin in March last year and Hughes added: “Before that injury, he had taken every step placed in front of him.

“He was progressing at a fantastic rate.

“Of course, you have to realise potential. He’s got the chance to realise it here. He can still be a No.1 at a good Premier League club that’s trying to achieve things and he’s broken into the full England squad.

“That wouldn’t suggest he needs to move on. But because of the injury, which was horrible for him, he’s not quite where he was before and he needs time.

“I think he understands what he’s got here and that it’s right for him.

“But I’ve no doubt this summer if there’s a churn of keepers at top clubs that Jack will be mentioned. “It’s not something I’m enco encouraging – alt although talking a about it probably doesn’t help.

“But top clubs have always held th the view that they pay well for a specialist role like a goalkeeper.

“Even this club was involved in the world record transfer of a keeper when Peter Shilton signed from Leicester, so it happens.”