Former Bristol Rovers manager Gerry Francis is one of the reasons behind Stoke City's Premier League survival this season - and he could be staying on with the Potters.

Francis, who knew Stoke City boss Tony Pulis from their respective careers with Bristol Rovers, is considering a second year on the coaching staff at the Britannia stadium.

The 58-year-old, who turned down a similar role at Newcastle United, and has been working with Stoke since September told BBC Radio Stoke: "I've been approached about next year, but I'll have to think about it.

"I've really enjoyed being here, but the travelling has been tough. I've done 60,000 miles since I arrived."

Francis, who was at the helm for Bristol Rovers from 1987 to 1991 and had a second six-month spell in charge at the Memorial Stadium in 2001, lives in London and has been making the journey north to help Stoke in training and on match days.

The Potters secured their top-flight status with Saturday's 2-1 win at Hull City, leaving Francis tipping Pulis for the manager of the season gong.

"It's a fantastic achievement," he said. "Nearly everybody I know said that we would go down.

"Whoever wins the (Premier League) title will probably win that award but, for me, Tony should definitely be in that category."