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Predictions for the next three Stoke City wonderkids to break into the first team
The Stoke academy players that could become the club’s next big names
Over the years, Stoke City’s youth program has produced a lot of great players.
The Potters may not be known for producing stars at the same rate as some of their rivals, but they have had their fair share of success stories.
Tyrese Campbell, who rose through the ranks of the junior system, is now an important member of the squad.
D’Margio Wright-Phillips is another example of a potential Stoke City star in the making, with the third generation prospect displaying his skill when given the chance.
Some, including Nathan Collins, Ben Brereton Diaz, and Daniel Bachmann, have gone on to bigger things in their careers after leaving Stoke.
Who will be the next generation of Stoke City stars?
However, the next shining talent is always just around the corner.
Every year, there are young players that have the potential to break through and become top-tier players.
We take a look at three young stars who are fighting to become the next household names as a result of their experience in the Stoke academy…
Sidibé Sol
Sidibé, who is only 16 years old, has already taken a significant stride forward in his career by appearing twice in the Championship this season.
The Frenchman joined Stoke in 2015 at the age of eight, after rising through the ranks of the club’s numerous underage squads.
Sidibé made his competitive debut for Neil’s team in the opening game of the season, coming off the bench in a 4-1 win over Rotherham United.
While it is too early to determine whether the midfielder will be a consistent presence in the team, he has shown remarkable promise.
He has since played in a 2-1 EFL Cup triumph over West Brom and a substitute appearance in a 2-0 loss to Ipswich Town earlier this month.
His first-team opportunities may be limited this season, but the fact that he is already being given an opportunity to impress at the senior level demonstrates how highly regarded he is.
Nathaniel Lowe
Lowe is another midfielder with a lot of potential coming through Stoke.
The 17-year-old has only made one first-team appearance, coming off the bench late in last season’s 1-0 loss to Blackpool.
He has not yet been given any additional opportunities, but he is certainly on Neil’s radar if he has previously had him train with the senior team.
More opportunities may present themselves over the next 12 months if he continues to improve at a positive rate.
Griffin, Jake
This season, the defender has been a steady presence in the Stoke U21 squad in the Premier League 2, appearing in all three games.
The 17-year-old has impressed and could make the first team at some point this season.
Griffin could be in line to take advantage of an opening for a young defender to develop this season at Stoke.
The Englishman is still in his early phases of his career, but based on his performances, he could make the jump to senior football soon.
