Stoke City have tied down Tom Edwards to a new four-year contract at the club. The talented right-back has seen many ups and downs at the BET365 Stadium in his brief footballing career and is one of the rising stars of their academy.
The defender made some quick development through the ranks and only signed his first professional contract in the summer. But his eye-catching performance over the course of the last two months have at last given him the much-awaited recognition as he has been awarded for his development.
There was already a sign of encouragement when Potters boss included him in the squad for the pre-season and that lifted the lid. The 18-year-old has been with the reserves side and we might see him playing on the big stage very soon.
Currently, Stoke’s only option in the right back section is Glen Johnson but the 33-year-old has passed his prime. Mame Diouf has been tried on the right wing back position but his options are very limited and a number of times he has been exploited pretty badly.
Chief executive Tony Scholes gave him a very good certificate. “It’s always pleasing to see a local lad doing well.
“Tom’s progressed into the first-team squad and Mark has included him in a number of pre-season matches. He’s earned this new contract.”
He was named the Potters’ U-18’s player of the year and has all the possible elements in him to burst into the scene. Edwards can be stationed further forward on the right side and can operate from the left side too. He was sidelined with an injury but is now ready to come back.
The youngster is yet to feature this season and it seems he will have to wait to get a chance in the first team. He could have been used in the Carabao Cup but Stoke lost the plot against Bristol City in the third round of the tournament.
Hughes will be digging deep in the transfer market for a right-sided full-back but rather than investing on unknown players he could use his own club resources. Edwards is very aware of the situations in the top tier and is ready to jump in.
He also had a brief training session with England U-19 side and might be included in the final setup very soon. Given the current scenarios, he has a pretty long future at the club.
