Josef Bursik could be the long-term replacement for Jack Butland at Stoke City

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When Stoke City were relegated it looked like plenty of their star players would be exiting the club. However, the Potters did well to hold on to many of their stars. One of those players was Jack Butland.

The England international was immediately linked with an exit after Stoke’s relegation. However, despite links with the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal, Butland remained.

However, Stoke have found life in the Championship tougher than many expected. Luckily the nature of the league table means they remain within touching distance of the promotion places, despite being in 14th place. But the early signs suggest Stoke may not go straight back up.

At that point, Stoke will struggle to keep hold of Butland.

But do they already have his replacement? When Stoke City raided AFC Wimbledon in July 2017 not many fans would have given the move much notice.

However, Josef Bursik is now looking like an absolute steal.

The 18-year-old is currently the starting goalkeeper for the England under-19s and has impressed in recent fixtures for his country. He is also now enjoying regular football. Bursik is currently on loan with Hednesford Town in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, playing 17 games and earning rave reviews.

Stoke have a current England international between the sticks and it seems a potential future one coming through their ranks. That is certainly a reason to be cheerful for Potters fans.