Cotterill has signed a three-year contract and takes up his new post at the Britannia Stadium with immediate effect.

The 37-year-old will work alongside director of football John Rudge and first-team coach Dave Kevan.

Cotterill said: "It's a big move for me and one I'm looking forward to.

"I spoke to Wimbledon last Thursday before I spoke to Stoke but the minute I knew the Stoke job had come up I knew that was the job I wanted.

"The ground is nothing short of magnificent and the supporters here are fantastic."

Stoke chief executive Jonathan Fuller said: "We are delighted to welcome Steve to the club.

"There is no doubt he is one of the most highly-rated and sought-after young managers in the country.

"He is very well regarded within football and his name has been linked with a number of vacancies.

"We interviewed several top-class candidates for the job, but Steve's credentials, qualifications and achievements stood out."

Fuller added: "We thank Cheltenham for the way they reacted to our request to talk to Steve and their co-operation after he was offered the job."

Cotterill led Cheltenham from the Dr Martens League to the Second Division in five seasons.

Wimbledon had also been interested in securing his services.

Cotterill enjoyed spells with Wimbledon, Brighton and Bournemouth as a player before being forced to retire through injury.