The 2011-12 campaign was a historic season for Stoke City, marking The Potters' first European adventure since 1975 as they navigated a tough UEFA Europa League group and reached the Round of 32. This memorable continental run, while taking a toll on their domestic form, saw the club consolidate its Premier League status with a 14th-place finish. Spearheading the attack was the club-record signing Peter Crouch, whose 10 league goals and famous 'Goal of the Season' volley against eventual champions Manchester City made him the club's Player of the Year in a proud, defining chapter of their modern history.