Ashley Phillips: Stoke City sign teenage Spurs defender on loan

“Whilst we identified the need to bring another central defender into our squad some time ago, we opted to remain patient and await the right player of the right quality to become available,” Stoke sporting director Jon Walters said.

“We’re delighted that our conversations with Ashley and with Tottenham have led to them each believing that Stoke City is the right club for him, amid no shortage of competition.”

Phillips is expected to be available for selection for Saturday’s home game with West Bromwich Albion.

After starting the season with a 1-0 home win over Coventry City and a 2-0 League Cup win at Carlisle United, the Potters were hammered 3-0 last Saturday at Watford.