“The atmosphere here is amazing and I am looking forward to getting back in for pre-season”New Bristol City arrival Josh Stokes (Photo by Rogan/Bristol City)

Bristol City have announced that young talent Josh Stokes has signed a new three-year deal which will keep him at Ashton Gate until 2028.

The attacking midfielder signed from National League side Aldershot Town 18 months ago when he was just 19 and has only played one competitive game for City – so far.

He was loaned back to Aldershot for the rest of the 2023-24 season, and then, a week after making his debut for City as a second half substitute for Nahki Wells in a League Cup tie last August. Stokes went on loan again to League One side Cambridge United for the whole of last season.

Stokes impressed at Cambridge, despite the team getting relegated back to League Two – he won both the Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season at the U’s, after netting seven times in 32 appearances.

Those appearances have led to a clamour for him to be given a place in the first team squad for the new season, which starts in a couple of months, and Bristol City’s technical director Brian Tinnion said everyone at Ashton Gate looked forward to seeing him in red and white.

“We are delighted to secure Josh’s signature after his very positive loan with Cambridge. We are looking forward to seeing more of him this season,” he said.

Josh Stokes, after making his Bristol City debut against Coventry City (Picture: Rogan Thomas/Bristol City)

Now 21, Stokes’ role in the team and the squad was filled by West Ham loanee George Earthy last season, but with Earthy going back to East London, there could well be a chance for Stokes to impress the new manager – who is expected to be announced within the next 24 hours – and the Ashton Gate fans.

The new three-year deal means Stokes will be signed up until the end of the 27/28 season. “I am over the moon to sign an extension,” he said.

“The atmosphere here is amazing and I am looking forward to getting back in for pre-season. On a personal note, I felt like I had a positive season. I am always looking to improve my game and learn. I am looking to get as much game time as possible,” he added.