Director of Football John Rudge believes Academy graduate Ryan Shotton is showing all the signs of developing into a future first team star.

The eighteen year old protégé has linked up with the senior squad for the first time after impressing sufficiently at reserve and academy level last term.

Speaking exclusively to stokecityfc.com from the training camp in Austria, Rudge says: "Ryan has massive potential but we have to remember he is still a young lad.

"He has everything you need to establish himself as a professional player, and I believe he will show what he is about in due course.

"He has done very well so far since stepping in to the first team, and now he needs to carry that on, and if he does he has a very bright future."

The Fenton-born youngster is set to make an appearance in tonight's friendly with Bad Aussee and admits he is loving every minute of being a full-time professional.

"It's a dream come true to be honest," smiles Shotton.

"I didn't think I would be where I am now a year or two ago, but I have got to keep going and make sure I keep improving.

"Playing with the likes of Danny Higginbotham and Clint Hill is absolutely brilliant experience for me, they just inspire me to do well in football."

The 2005/06 Academy Player of the Year says he can only benefit from words of advice from the most seasoned professionals at the club.

"John has had a lot of experience in the game, just like Tony and it is great to learn from people like them.

"All the coaches have proven track records and it is brilliant to learn from them," he adds.