Former Stoke City striker Mamady Sidibie opens a patisserie in the Potteries

Cult hero spent eight years with the club, scoring 26 goals

Former Stoke City striker Mamady Sidibie has opened a patisserie with his wife (Stoke City FC)

It's not the most natural of career paths for a a footballer, but former Stoke City striker Mamady Sidibie has opened up a patisserie in Hanley.

Melice opened business in the Potteries Shopping Centre on Saturday after a grand opening that included current Stoke boss Mark Hughes, Andy Wilkinson and Steven N'Zonzi in attendance.

Sidibie, who scored 26 goals in 186 appearances for the club between 2005 and 2013, will help run the business with his wife Benita.

"I am very pleased by the turnout from friends and we are all very excited about this new venture," the Mailian told the Stoke Sentinel.

"It is totally different to football and so we were a little worried about doing this because people in England are not used to patisseries.

"It is something we need to get people used to, but I am sure they will love the food.

"We have everything for a snack or lunch - sandwiches, cakes, crepes - and all kinds of drinks as well."

Sidibie is without a club after he was released from Bulgarian side CSKA Sofia in December.