Permanent deal for Stoke City loanee Lee Grant looming?

There’s no disputing the fact that Lee Grant has been a rather quality loan signing. As his return to Derby County nears, has he done enough to earn a full-time deal?

It’s been no secret that Lee Grant has got more than bargained for since arriving at the Bet365 in the summer.

Originally pencilled in as cover for fellow veteran Shay Given – while the club awaited the return of Jack Butland – Grant has spent more time on the pitch than he probably thought he’d ever see.

However, since his introduction following less-than-convincing performances from Irishman Given, he’s looked rather accustomed to the purple shirt.

What has Grant brought to the party?

Once the extent of Butland’s injury was known, Mark Hughes and the club reacted rather quickly.

It wasn’t the marquee signing that got fans jumping up and down, but Grant has been around a while. He knows what he’s doing.

A journeyman in for temporary cover…didn’t sound too bad.

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Before signing, Grant remarkably hadn’t made a single Premier League appearance. He had however racked up over 400 for his previous clubs.

Grant began his career in 2002 at Derby County, his current parent club. Since arriving in Staffordshire, he’s made eight league starts for the Potters.

Making his debut against West Brom in the 1-1 draw back in September, Grant put in a worthy performance and hasn’t looked back since.

The following match, his heroics at Old Trafford earned him the Man of the Match award. Since then, the Potters have only conceded three in six, keeping three clean sheets.

What could it mean for the #1 position at the club?

This is where it could get interesting.

Hughes has already spoken out at the fact that Butland isn’t necessarily going to jump straight back into the spotlight.

In fact, our Garry Welsh gave us a good look at the potential dilemma the other day:

Next: Grant vs Butland - simple enough?

What then happens to Shay Given? I’m sure he’d not be too upset to admit his days are coming to an end, but will he be happy to be third string?

And then of course, will the signing of Lee Grant stunt the growth of youngster Jakob Haugaard? All signs would point to the Dane going out on loan in January, then?

It’s very much a ‘pro’ and ‘con’ situation.

My opinion? Stoke City don’t need four senior goalkeepers. Grant has been a great signing, but as long as Butland is fit, I believe the money could be used better elsewhere.