Josh Stokes, currently on loan from Bristol City to Cambridge United, has been making significant strides during his time at the League One club. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has emerged as a pivotal figure for Cambridge United, showcasing his talent and potential. His performances have not gone unnoticed, particularly by his parent club's head coach, Neil Harris. Since joining Cambridge United in August 2024, Stokes has been a revelation. In his 27 league appearances, he has netted six goals, placing him among the team's top scorers. Beyond his goal-scoring feats, he has also contributed two assists, highlighting his playmaking abilities. These statistics underscore his importance to the team and his growth as a player. Harris, who assumed the role of head coach at Cambridge United in January 2025, has been effusive in his praise for Stokes. He lauded the young midfielder as a "stand-out performer" and emphasized his impressive work ethic and skill set. Harris remarked, "He's a really, really bright young footballer with energy and ability. His work ethic is very, very impressive as well." Looking ahead, Harris expressed optimism about Stokes' prospects upon returning to Bristol City. He suggested that Stokes could make an impact with the Championship club, stating, "I do think he could have an impact at Bristol City." Harris further noted that while he doesn't influence Bristol City's team selections, he believes Stokes has the potential to contribute significantly at a higher level. Stokes' journey to this point has been marked by determination and consistent performance. After stints with Ipswich Town's academy and AFC Sudbury, he joined Aldershot Town in July 2023. His time at Aldershot was marked by a remarkable goal-scoring run, where he netted 16 goals in 31 appearances. This form earned him a move to Bristol City in January 2024, who immediately loaned him back to Aldershot for the remainder of the season. At Bristol City, Stokes made his debut in an EFL Cup match against Coventry City in August 2024, coming on as a substitute. Later that month, he joined Cambridge United on loan, where he has continued to impress. His contract with Bristol City runs until the summer of 2027, indicating the club's long-term investment in his development. As Stokes' loan spell with Cambridge United nears its conclusion, all eyes are on his next steps. The positive feedback from Harris and his consistent performances suggest a promising future. Whether he returns to Bristol City to vie for a spot in the first team or seeks further loan opportunities, Stokes' trajectory appears upward. His story serves as a testament to the impact of well-structured loan moves and the importance of nurturing young talent in English football.