In his latest column for the *Stoke Sentinel*, former Stoke City manager Gary Rowett shared his thoughts on the recent transfer window and why he’s optimistic about the business Stoke and other clubs have done. Rowett expressed relief that the window has closed, noting how it preoccupies managers, especially after the season has already begun. He highlighted the chaotic nature of deadline day but emphasized that several teams made excellent signings. He praised Derby County’s acquisitions, particularly David Ozoh, who has impressed him in recent matches. Additionally, Rowett commended the signing of Nat Phillips, a defender who brings valuable experience and is a proven threat in set-piece situations. Phillips’ ability to score while defending well makes him an invaluable asset to Derby, according to Rowett.
Rowett also pointed to Derby’s signing of Marcus Harness, a player he knows well from his time at Burton Albion. He recounted giving Harness his debut as a young player and remarked on his growth in terms of balance, athleticism, and intelligence. Harness, now a more experienced player, is ready for regular football, and Rowett believes this move will benefit both Derby and the player. Although Derby may have hoped to secure another striker to round out their squad, Rowett acknowledged that it’s difficult to get everything you want during the transfer window. Many clubs, he noted, were in the market for a striker, but the financial demands, including wages, loan fees, and agent costs, often made deals challenging.
Rowett reflected on his own experiences with inflated transfer costs, recalling an instance at Derby where the loan fee for a Premier League striker was astronomical. He observed that the current loan market remains costly, though it has changed since clubs like Chelsea capitalized on multiple loan deals in the past. He acknowledged that some clubs, like Stoke, were able to pull off significant deals, such as the signing of Tom Cannon, but noted that not all clubs, including Derby, could compete financially for certain players.
Turning to Stoke, Rowett was impressed by their new strategy of bringing in talented young players like Lewis Koumas. He compared this approach to Derby’s loan signings of players like Mason Mount and Fikayo Tomori, who made a significant impact at the time. He also highlighted the stellar signing of Cannon, who had a successful loan spell at Preston and is expected to be a key player for Stoke this season. Rowett believes Stoke’s transfer business positions them for a much more positive season ahead.
Rowett also commented on other Championship teams, such as Coventry, who have reinvested wisely after the departure of Viktor Gyökeres. He expects Coventry to remain strong despite the challenge of replacing a key player. Hull City, with a new manager and different style of play, are another team to watch, while Sheffield United are expected to be competitive. Luton, Rowett noted, have struggled to maintain the underdog mentality that earned them promotion to the Premier League, and it will be interesting to see how they adjust if they drop back to the Championship.
He also spoke highly of Sunderland, who have started the season well. Rowett mentioned Kristjaan Speakman, Sunderland’s Sporting Director, who he worked with at Derby’s academy. He praised Sunderland’s ability to make astute signings over the years, building a squad full of value. Rowett noted that while the Championship may not be as strong as last season, the quality is more evenly distributed, with many teams capable of doing well this year.
One transfer that caught Rowett’s attention was Jay Stansfield’s move from Fulham to Birmingham in a record-breaking deal. Rowett admitted he didn’t expect it to happen, given Stansfield’s impressive performances last season. However, Birmingham’s ability to create a strong family atmosphere and make Stansfield feel valued likely played a key role in securing the deal. Rowett believes Birmingham have attracted several players by offering the potential for Premier League football in the future, and Stansfield’s commitment to hard work makes him a perfect signing for the club.
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