TONY PULIS WANTS TO GO FROM STOKE TO... ATHLETIC BILBAO

ABOVE: Tony Pulis is keen to shed his reputation for long-ball football

But the La Liga club's first-choice is Ernesto Valverde, who used to play for Bilbao and seems ready to return.

16th June 2013

By Harry Pratt

TONY PULIS wants the Athletic Bilbao job - and the chance to change his image as a long-ball boss.

The Welshman, 55, who parted company with Stoke last month after seven years at the helm, believes a switch to the continent is the best way for him to improve his reputation in the game.
Despite keeping the Potters in the top flight for four seasons, reaching an FA Cup Final and leading the club into Europe for the first time, Pulis could not shed his tag for direct, route-one football.

That is why he has put his name into the frame for the hotseat at the San Mames Stadium - after being encouraged to do so by close pal Rafa Benitez.
But the La Liga club's first-choice is Ernesto Valverde, who used to play for Bilbao and seems ready to return.