Stoke City Must Act on Josh Stephenson Loan Deal
Stoke City will need to find a replacement for Ashley Phillips this summer, and they should look for another prospect from the Premier League, such as Josh Stephenson. League standing: 17th in Championship, 55 pts, 15W-10D-21L from 46 games, recent form LLLLD. The 20-year-old has been at Brentford since 2024 after signing from Millwall's academy.
What happened?
Josh Stephenson is a young defender who has excelled in Brentford's development squad for two years. He has contributed six goals and three assists for the development squad last term and has been named on the bench on several occasions.
Why it matters for Stoke City
Stoke City may have seen Ashley Phillips for the last time in red and white. Unfortunately for Mark Robins' side, his value could be north of seven figures. Phillips' doubtful return leaves a space in the centre of defence for the Potters. One player who could be a successful replacement for the former loanee is Josh Stephenson.
What comes next?
Stoke City should be interested in signing Josh Stephenson on loan for the 2026/27 campaign. The 20-year-old has been offered a new contract by Brentford, which should open him up to leaving on loan soon. He would undoubtedly bring a similar level of quality that Phillips brought during his initial loan spell.
Josh Stephenson can replace Ashley Phillips
While the 20-year-old would come to Stoke City with no prior experience of competitive senior action, he would bring a similar level of quality that Phillips brought during his initial loan spell. Stephenson is recognised for his ball-playing abilities and strong game awareness. The Bees have a history of developing top centre-backs, especially Tristan Crama, who is considered one of Millwall's top defenders.
Conclusion
Stoke City should be considering a move for Josh Stephenson. The 20-year-old has the potential to bring quality to the Potters' backline and could be a successful replacement for Ashley Phillips. Next fixture: vs Middlesbrough (away, 2027-02-17) (5th in the table). Goals this season: 51 scored, 56 conceded (-5 goal difference). Title race: 40 points behind leaders Coventry.
