Bristol City playmaker Josh Stokes has been Neil Harris’ ‘stand-out’ performer at Cambridge United

Head coach Neil Harris has backed ‘stand-out performer’ Josh Stokes to kick on after his loan spell with Cambridge United comes to an end.

In what has been a tough and disappointing campaign for the U’s, the performances of 20-year-old Stokes have been a rare shining light.

The playmaker is the club’s joint leading scorer in League One this term with six goals, while he has also laid on two assists during his 26 appearances.

Stokes will return to his parent club Bristol City in the summer, and Harris believes that the former AFC Sudbury and Aldershot Town youngster could have an impact with the EFL Championship outfit.

Harris said: “I do (think he could have an impact at Bristol City). I’m not picking Liam’s (Manning, manager) squad or team for him – he’s doing a very good job at Bristol City, but Josh Stokes has done extremely well. He’s a really, really bright young footballer with energy and ability. His work ethic is very, very impressive as well.

“He’s been a real shining light for our football club this season and a stand-out performer for me in my nine games.

“I really like him as a lad and that’s probably the biggest compliment I can give him. He’s a really good person.

“He’ll go back to Bristol over the pre-season period and they’ll judge where he’s at. I don’t think there’s a chance we’re going to see Josh Stokes appearing next season for a bottom half League One side or a League Two side – obviously putting ourselves in either of those categories.

“I expect him to get an opportunity to impress over the course of pre-season and I’m sure I’ll be speaking to Liam at the end of the season to check on his qualities and progression.

“And if he’s not (staying at Bristol) I’m sure he’ll be looking to get into a side in League One that’s looking to be right at the top end of it.”

Stokes is contracted to City until the summer of 2027.