News from the bet365 Stadium as Stoke City sign Ben Gibson

Ben Gibson emphasised the importance of culture and environment as he joins Stoke City. The 31-year-old, who has twice won promotion to the Premier League and helped Norwich reach this year’s play-offs, will immediately be a senior figure in the changing room at the bet365 Stadium. He is making it clear that he will be demanding in his standards.

Gibson, who has signed a three-year deal, said: “Stoke City is a fantastic club, with lots of history, huge stature and I am looking forward to getting to work.

“I have played here, the atmosphere is fantastic and the fanbase speaks for itself. I want to be part of a team that brings the good times back to Stoke. There are some brilliant players here and it is now about creating that unity and togetherness to find the camaraderie which will set us on our way to achieving something great.

“We have to build a culture and environment where everyone is demanding of each other, where we don’t accept second best from anyone in this football club from top to bottom. Our fans work hard to earn their money every week to come and support us so they need to see a team that reflects them, their personalities and attitude to life.

“It is important we recreate that and they have that connection with the team.”

Gibson is the second signing of the summer, following the arrival of keeper Viktor Johansson from Rotherham.