Saints trigger extension clause for Jack Stephens

[Gregm1988]

He's not quick enough in thought or action to play DM. He can't play in tight spaces when being harassed by opposition players. A problem that Charles has too so far and presumably why Martin doesn't trust him and chooses Smallbone to play at DM ahead of him despite Charles being far superior defensively to Smallbone.

Realistically without Downes (unless we sign someone else who can play that role) we need to change system

 

[Libby]

Who'd have thought when he signed that Stephens would end up having a testimonial here.

 

[Saintharry13]

I still expect at least one of Bednarek or ABK to go, but wonder where Stephens ranks among our many CBs. I know Martin loves him, but I can't see him getting much game time this year unless they both go. We have 6 CBs and you can supposedly add Taylor into the mix if we play a 3.

THB, Bednarek, ABK, Stephens, Edwards, Wood, Taylor?

I remember thinking that ABK needed a belter of a season to really come back and impose himself with us…. But checking the stats, he had a poor and injury hit season. For me, that Forest game where he was turned all ends up on TV meant he needed a lot more development… not sure he’s got it yet, not sure if he’s actually got the minerals to graft with us.

 

[Lovelocum]

Who'd have thought when he signed that Stephens would end up having a testimonial here.

Completely forgot he’s been here since 2011. Spent many many seasons on loan though.