The recent Aztex Soccer Night was deemed a great success by all who were present. Aztex president and Stoke City director Phil Rawlins, ex-Potter and new Aztex boss Adrian Heath were both present, as well as United Soccer League President Francisco Marcos, to answer questions from the fans and BBC Radio Stoke’s Nigel Johnson.

They spoke to supporters in Delilah’s Bar in Britannia Stadium about the link between Stoke and the newly formed soccer franchise in Austin, Texas, informing the City faithful about the plans for the team and the USL.

The evening began with Nigel Johnson asking questions to each of the three visitors, followed by a chance for the fans to come up and pitch their views and ask questions.

City legend Alan Hudson was also in attendance.

The fans who attended enjoyed the evening and were delighted to have a chance to know of the future plans between the two clubs.

Lee Richardson, 37, from Longton, said: "It was good to see how the new link is going to work. I’m quite excited to see how the future pans out for both clubs.

"It will be interesting to see if we discover some new talent in America to bring to Stoke."

Phil Rawlins also said he was excited about the challenge that lays ahead but admits he faces an immediate dilemma.

Speaking exclusively to Stoke City World, Rawlins said: "The Aztex U23 side play their first match on May 3 in El Paso, the day before Stoke play their final game of the season against Leicester!

"Because of the time change it is not physically possible for me to do both!

"I’ve got a plane ticket for El Paso and for Manchester Airport so I’ll have to wait and see where my loyalties lie. It depends on the importance of Stoke’s game."

By Mark Mothershaw