Stoke boss Paul Lambert has vowed to do everything in his power to keep hold of Jack Butland and says there is “absolutely no chance” of the goalkeeper leaving the club this month.

England international Butland has frequently been spoken about as a potential signing for a ‘big six’ Premier League club.

He has a new manager in Lambert, who the Potters on Monday appointed as successor to the sacked Mark Hughes on a two-and-a-half year deal.

And when asked ahead of Saturday’s home clash with Huddersfield about the possibility of Butland departing during the current transfer window, Lambert said: “Absolutely no chance.

“As long as I’m here I’ll do everything I can to keep him.”

While Butland has conceded 43 goals in 20 league appearances this season, Lambert has no doubt the 24-year-old is one of Europe’s finest goalkeepers.

The Scot, who watched Stoke’s 3-0 loss at Manchester United from the Old Trafford stands hours after his appointment was announced, said: “I saw that lad play against United.

“He is one of the best, I don’t care what anybody says. That boy is one of the best goalkeepers I’ve seen.

“He’s got the stature, he’s got great kicking, and he made saves at Old Trafford that were great. He had no chance with the goals, absolutely none whatsoever.

“It’s not just him who has conceded the goals, it’s everywhere.

“He’s only a young lad but he is definitely one of the best.

“Jack Butland in my opinion is one of the best going around, without a doubt – not just in Britain, in Europe.”

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