Former City star Adrian Heath has this morning been appointed as the new Austin Aztex manager.

The news was announced at a press conference inside the Britannia Stadium this morning, and Adrian who has managing experience at both Burnley and Sheffield United says he is delighted to land the roll.

Speaking exclusively to stokecityfc.com Heath said; "To be honest I have wanted to coach in the US for over a year now.

"I had been across to America with both Coventry City and Sunderland and it was something I had mentioned to Phil when I had been over there.

"I just told him I had been looking to get out over there myself, so he got in touch with me, we had a good chat about it and I went over to Texas recently and had a good look around.

"It was a no brainer really once we got there and saw it. Phil has massive plans for the club and so do I, so it is a very exciting opportunity for me."

New managers don't tend to have to build a new team from scratch, but that is something Adrian is going to have to do.

And while he admits it will be a massive task, he reveals he can't wait to get the job underway.

"It's an unusual situation really, but the pool of talent there is over in the United States is unbelievable.

"At youth level there is more kids playing soccer as they call it over there, than there are playing basketball, American Football and baseball put together.

"It is amazing really, and if I can build a good side here, and help Stoke find a gem or two I will be a very happy man."