Stoke academy player Connor Taylor’s loan to Bristol Rovers has started well, with the 19 year old defender getting applauds from the fans, pundits & his manager Joey Barton.

Barton Is not stranger from taking a young Stoke defender, having already helped in Harry Souttar’s progression whilst Fleetwood manger, so let’s hope Connor shows he’s just as capable as Big Harry.

What Barton has said about Connor

To see the teenager excelling with the League Two side is an extremely positive sign for Stoke.

Regular minutes in the EFL can only be a positive thing for all involved, and for Taylor in particular, he will return a more intelligent and experienced professional.

Stoke already possess a very young backline, with Ben Wilmot (21), Leo Ostigard (21), and Harry Souttar (23), all emerging as starters early in this season, meaning that Michael O’Neill is not afraid of trusting youth.

If Taylor is able to continue his strong start in what remains of the season, then he has every chance of competing for a first-team spot in Staffordshire next year.

Connor’s performances so far have earned him a place in the Sky Bet league two team of the week.