Stoke City: Ashley Phillips says Potters starting to ‘feel like a team’

Even at just 19, Phillips has extensive knowledge of the Championship, having begun his senior career this time two seasons ago with Blackburn.

His form for Rovers earned him a move to Spurs in the summer of 2023 on a five-year deal, before being signed on loan last season by Plymouth Argyle in January and then by previous Stoke boss Steven Schumacher in August.

But, although he was hampered by a concussion injury early in his time at Stoke and then had to deal with the Potters’ unexpected change of manager, Phillips is happy with the way he has made himself feel at home, especially under Pelach.

“I was born in Manchester, which is just up the road,” said Phillips. “When I was at Plymouth, I was on the other side of the country, which was difficult.

“But here I feel a lot more comfortable – and I’ve settled in really quickly. The concussion put me out for a few weeks which was frustrating. But I’ve done three 90s on the bounce now so I’m feeling a lot better.

“One of my goals was to score, which I did at Southampton. That was my first professional goal – and I’m looking to get more. But the other goal for me is keeping clean sheets and I’ve got two so far.

“There’s a really great feeling about the place – and that’s down to the gaffer and the coaching staff. For me, he’s a great gaffer. I’ve learnt a lot from him already.”

Ashley Phillips was talking to BBC Radio Stoke sports editor Matt Sandoz