Francis considers future at Stoke

Gerry Francis has not managed since a brief return to Bristol Rovers in 2001

Gerry Francis is unsure if he will accept an offer to continue in his role as a coach at Stoke City next season.

The 58-year-old, who turned down a similar role at Newcastle United, has been part of the backroom staff at the Britannia Stadium since September.

"I've been approached about next year," Francis told BBC Radio Stoke. "But I'll have to think about it.

"I've really enjoyed being here, but the travelling has been tough. I've done 63,000 miles since I arrived."

Former England captain Francis, who managed in the Premier League with Tottenham and QPR, is based 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.

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And Francis insists that the Stoke boss should be a contender for manager of the season.

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

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