Stoke City manager Tony Pulis has strengthened his squad for the relegation run-in by signing Lee Mills and Steve Banks on permanent deals until the end of the season.

Goalkeeper Banks has been on-loan at the Britannia Stadium from Bolton since December while striker Mills agreed a temporary deal from Coventry last month.

Although they have been here on loan, they are, in effect, two new signings Stoke football director John Rudge

Both players have been released from their existing contracts, allowing them to complete permanent deals with City.

Potters' director of football John Rudge said: "We are delighted they are staying.

"Both have contributed a lot since they arrived and now we can plan forward knowing they are with us for the rest of the season.

"Although they have been here on loan, they are, in effect, two more new signings."