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Ben Osborn has left Derby County on loan for the 2025/26 campaign, joining Stockport County in League One.
The midfielder looked destined to join the Hatters on Monday, and while there were some rumours linking him to Plymouth Argyle, it is Greater Manchester where he will play his football for the next year.
Osborn is out of contract at Derby next summer, and he knows that he is fighting for his future at Edgeley Park.
Nevertheless, in his first adventure in League One, the new Stockport man has been given a glowing review by one current star at the club who has ties to Sheffield United.
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Ollie Norwood and Sheffield United’s role in bringing Ben Osborn to Stockport County
Osborn has plenty of experience playing in both the Premier League and the Championship, with his appearances in the top flight coming while he was at the Blades.
It was there where he played alongside Ollie Norwood, and now the two have reunited at Stockport. As Derby were looking to get the 31-year-old off their books, his former teammate made sure to tell Dave Challinor about everything he can bring to the Hatters.
The Stockport boss said (via: stockportcounty.com): “We’re delighted to welcome Ben to the Club. He comes at a time when his experience and know-how will be invaluable to our squad. The fact he can play down the left-hand side or as a central midfield player will be really important to us, especially in this period.
“He’s played alongside Ollie at Sheffield United, who gave him a glowing reference and we are really happy that he chose us as the place he wants to play his football for the remainder of this season.”
What Ben Osborn can bring to the Hatters this season
Osborn will be the first to admit that his first year at Derby did not go how he wanted it to, with the boyhood Rams fan failing to find form due to injury and fitness issues.
A Paul Warne signing, he struggled to impress John Eustace, and with the East Midlands club looking to make improvements, it was perhaps obvious that he would be one of those to depart Pride Park this summer.
Versatility is one of the main parts of Osborn’s game, and that is something that Stockport will benefit from. He is not going to be that skilful midfielder who will create 15 goals a season, but he will bring hard work and experience to the team.
He can also play at left wing-back when required, and Challinor will be hoping that he can hit the ground running at Edgeley Park.