Stoke City starlet hits impressive form on loan in League One after Potters first-team struggles

Stoke City goalkeeper Tommy Simkin is finding strong form during his season-long loan spell at League One side Doncaster Rovers. The 21-year-old was handed 17 appearances for Stoke City last season amid an injury crisis involving Viktor Johansson and Gavin Bazunu, but he struggled to settle as a Championship starter. With Johansson back as Mark Robins' first choice, Simkin was loaned out to gain regular playing time.

Simkin has rebounded sharply with Doncaster Rovers, boasting a 75 percent save rate and preventing +3.16 expected goals. Notable recent displays include a penalty save against Stockport County and a nine-save clean sheet in a 2-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday. James Ray of The72 argues that Simkin still has ample time to eventually succeed Johansson as Stoke's long-term starting goalkeeper.