Liam Lawrence went up with Sunderland in 2006 (Getty).

The former Sunderland midfielder has penned a three-and-a-half-year deal for the Championship table toppers, a 12-month extension on his current deal.

"It's good to sign because I love playing for the club. It's an ambitious club and that's the main reason I've signed," Lawrence told BBC Radio Stoke.

The 26-year-old wide man has scored 14 goals for the Potters this season.

Lawrence joined the Potters for �500,000 from Sunderland after a successful two-month loan spell in January 2007.

He has been instrumental in the Potters' push for promotion this season, being named Championship player of the month for February.

"The manager has played a big part," said Lawrence. "There's a good set of lads with good coaching staff. There's good camaraderie around the place.

"I'm playing the best football of my career, so to get the new deal signed and be happy is a major thing for me."