is an English association football club based in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire.
The club was formed in 1863 as Stoke Ramblers F.C., and played their first competitive match in November 1883, when they entered the First Round of the 1883–84 FA Cup.
Despite a lack of success Stoke have had a number of famous players over the years such as Stanley Matthews, Gordon Banks, Jimmy Greenhoff and Denis Smith.
Stoke City's record appearance-maker is Eric Skeels who made 596 appearances between 1959 and 1976.
Stoke's top senior goalscorer is John Ritchie with 176 goals.