THE SECRET SCOUT: Stoke defender Harry Souttar's height is a valuable asset

Our scout is a top football expert who attends matches each week searching for the next star.

Here is his verdict on Stoke's Harry Souttar for Sportsmail...

WHAT HAS HE GOT?

When I saw him he played as a central defender in a three-man defensive line and, at 6ft 6in, his height was a valuable asset when defending crosses.

Slightly crouched in style, there is no question of his ability on the ball and he certainly looked strong enough to hold off opponents.

His short passes were crisp but only occasionally did he play a longer diagonal pass. His pace was not really tested but he looked to have adequate speed.

WHAT DOES HE NEED?

I feel he would be better suited to playing in a back four.

He seemed to lack communication with his colleagues on occasions and when a ball bounced awkwardly in front of him he was slow to adjust his feet to clear.

But several seasons ago I would have made the same observation about Harry Maguire.