‘Liverpool transfer target will not be sold’ – Mark Hughes

Stoke City manager Mark Hughes has dismissed reports linking keeper Jack Butland with a move away from the club.

The 22-year-old has been in impressive form for the Potters this season since taking over between the sticks following Asmir Begovic‘s departure to Chelsea.

Reports have suggested that Liverpool and Everton areinterested in the England international, but Hughes has insisted that he has no intention of selling the keeper.

Hughes told reporters: “Jack’s going nowhere. He’s progressing well but he’s very early into his career development as a No 1 keeper. People are aware of him – and they have been for a long time.

“Jack forced his way into the England squad when he was 19 but he needs a season-in-season-out of week-in-week-out in the Premier League. He’s had a great career progression, every step he has taken he has dealt with.

“Now it’s about consolidating himself in a very good Premier League team. That’s the challenge for him.”

Butland joined Stoke in 2013 from Birmingham City.