THE Argus today sends our warmest congratulations to one of Newport's sporting sons.

Tony Pulis was deservedly named Premier League Manager of the Year by the League Managers' Association late on Monday night and Barclays Manager of the Year yesterday.

Mr Pulis was honoured for his remarkable job at Crystal Palace this season.

The former Newport County player, from the Pill area of the city, took the hot seat at the London club in November when they had just four points from 11 games and seemed nailed-on certainties for relegation after just one season in the top division.

Instead, the former Stoke City boss worked his particular brand of managerial magic as Palace climbed the table to finish 11th, winning a club record five successive matches, and securing their Premier League status with three games to spare.

It was a remarkable performance by Mr Pulis and ensured he maintained his record of never being relegated in a managerial career that began 22 years ago and has seen him take charge of seven clubs, including two spells at Stoke.

Mr Pulis, who began his playing career at Newport YMCA, has always remained true to his Pill roots, and many members of his family still live in the city.

This season he has proved himself the best of the best in his chosen profession and we salute him.