Stoke City goalkeeper Jack Butland heaped praise on the travelling Birmingham City fans after he suffered a 1-0 loss against his former side on Saturday. 

The Potters signed Butland from Birmingham in January 2013 for £3.4million before being loaned back to St. Andrews for the remainder of the season.

He received a rousing reception when taking his place in the goal in front of the travelling fans at the start of the second half on Saturday and it is one that did not pass him by.

"Frustrating result yesterday. Atmosphere was top drawer," he tweeted.

"Thanks to the Blues fans for the reception. Focus on bouncing back on Tuesday now."

After being sent out on loan to Barnsley, Derby County and Leeds United the 25-year-old has finally established himself as the club's first choice 'keeper.

He has now made 100 appearances for the Potters and also secured a spot in the England squad after spending the summer in Russia for the World Cup.

The defeat to Birmingham sent Gary Rowett's side down into 17th place and they will be hopeful of bouncing back in midweek when they face high-flying Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.

The verdict 

It is refreshing to see fans appreciate a former player after he has left them.

Too often in modern football, a player becomes the anti-christ simply for wanting to further his career at a more successful club.

In reality, the decision to leave is virtually never a condemnation of the club he is leaving but simply a desire to play at a higher level.