Smallbone joins Stoke on loan
Young Southampton midfielder Will Smallbone has joined Stoke City on loan for the 2022/23 season.
The 22-year-old Academy graduate has racked up 20 first-team appearances in Saints colours, scoring on his debut against Huddersfield Town in the FA Cup third round in 2020.
The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international bounced back from a serious knee injury to play seven times last season, and will now have the opportunity to experience regular football in the Championship.
Managed by former Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill, Stoke finished 14th last season, recording their highest points tally since relegation from the Premier League in 2017/18.
Southampton Football Club would like to wish Will all the best with the season ahead as he looks to further his development, and will be keeping a keen eye on his progress.
