ONCE Britain’s most expensive goalkeeper, Steve Simonsen arrived at the Britannia Stadium looking to get his career back on track.

The former England Youth International was hailed one of the country’s best young stoppers when Everton manager Walter Smith paid Tramnere Rovers £3.3 million for his services.

But his time at Goodison Park was hampered by injuries and changes in management, which lead to him making just 35 appearances.

Smith, the manager who signed him, left the club in 2002, and his replacement, David Moyes, had his own ideas on who he wanted in the nets.

Simonsen was brought to the Britannia Stadium by Tony Pulis who snapped him up on a free transfer in July 2004 as competition for Ed De Goey.

He soon wrestled the number one shirt from the former Dutch international and has enjoyed being the Potter’s first choice goalkeeper ever since.

He broke the club record for the number of clean sheets in 2006 after not conceding for seven games on the bounce. Coventry City, Crystal Palace, Hull City, West Bromwich Albion, Cardiff City, Coventry (again) and Queens Park Rangers all tried in vain to find a way past Simonsen. His resolve finally broke during the Potters’ 3-0 defeat to Colchester United at Layer Road.

Simonsen has proved popular with City supporters thanks to his calm head and excellent shot stopping ability.

2008/2009 season
Simonsen saw his chances limited following the arrival of Thomas Sorensen.

He made four appearances in the League Cup to help Stoke reach the quarter-finals before losing 1-0 to Derby County.

In the league 'Simmo' made three starts and two substitute appearances. His only appearance in the FA Cup was Stoke's only appearance as they crashed out in the third round at Hartlepool United.

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