Stoke City manager Gary Rowett has signalled his intent to turn around the fortunes of long-struggling striker Saido Berahino, reports the club's official Twitter account.

It has been two-and-a-half years since the striker has scored a first team goal which came for West Bromwich Albion against Crystal Palace in February 2016.

But the Burundi striker's current manager is keen to get the best out of him.

"We think we can improve Saido Berahino's situation," Rowett told his press conference on Monday.

"As a manager, I have to try and get the best out of the players at the club.

"Whatever has gone on before, Saido is our player and I will try to get the best out of him."

The 25-year-old was handed a start on Saturday for the Potters, partnering new signing Benik Afobe in attack in a 2-2 draw against Preston North End.

Although he once again failed to score, he showed flashes of the striker Stoke shelled out over £12million for in January 2017, particularly when he did well to get in front of his defender and direct a good header on goal.

The verdict 

This will be music to Saido Berahino's ears.

The last thing he would have wanted was to be cast aside by Rowett and seen as surplus to requirements, but to hear his manager put this faith in his ability will be a real boost.

He may not have shown it for a long time, but he is a talented striker and if he can start firing will be a real weapon for stoke.