Luca Stephenson

Stephenson plays with a hard working, tough tackling style that fans at previous clubs have warmed to quickly. He is the sort of defender who wins physical battles rather than avoiding them. He has mostly featured on the right of a defence, comfortable in a back four or a back five, and has filled in through central midfield when needed. He captained youth sides during his development, evidence of a player trusted early with responsibility.

The question is whether that combative style holds up against quicker, more technical opponents, who can use a tackler's aggression against him if the timing of a challenge is even slightly off. Physical defending draws praise until the moment it gives away a needless free kick or penalty in a dangerous area. Watch how disciplined he stays under provocation, because that balance usually decides how far a player with his style can go.