Tony Pulis has given his thumbs up to City youngsters Carl Dickinson and Andy Wilkinson following their performances against Aston Villa.

The pair, who came through the Potters Academy have put themselves in line to start the opening game of the season at Cardiff next week.

Carl Hoefkens thigh strain ruled him out last night, and the City boss admitted he was impressed with the two defenders.

He said: "Both of the lads did absolutely brilliant last night.

"They lack a little bit of experience but playing in games like this will help give them that.

"They both have bright futures. The only problem is more experienced players are more relaxed on the ball, but that will come in time.

"I also thought Lewis (Buxton) and Anthony (Pulis) did very well when they came on."

Despite the 2-0 defeat Pulis admitted he was satisfied with the run out, but lamented missed chances in the second half.

"The first half they were all over us, we allowed them to much time on the ball and they passed it through us.

"In the second half we were a lot better, and we managed to get in behind them a few times but unfortunately we couldn't get a goal," he added.