Pulis takes his side to Manchester United on the final day of the season

Stoke City manager Tony Pulis believes his defence have played a massive role in helping the club beat their points tally from last season.

The Potters have kept 14 clean sheets and surpassed the 45 points they registered in 2008/09 with a 1-0 victory against Fulham on Wednesday.

"It's a good base to build on," Pulis told BBC Radio Stoke. "You don't do that without spirit and commitment."

"I've told the players that they've made a manager very proud and pleased."

Stoke are only the second team in the history of the Premier League (the other being Blackburn Rovers) to improve their points tally from their first season in the top-flight in their second campaign.

"We must not underestimate the achievement of this team over the past two years," continued the Stoke boss.

"Every Stoke supporter, wherever they are in the world, can be proud of the players and the performances this year.

"To turn up at Fulham, who've played their best team, in the last but one game of the season and get the result is absolutely fantastic."

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