DURING his first season at the club, Shawcross not only won the admiration of supporters and pundits alike but made the jump to international football.
The youngster joined the Potters on a six-month loan deal from Manchester United in August 2007 and took little time to win over the City faithful.
Just days after arriving at the club, Shawcross scored the winner against Cardiff City at Ninian Park to give the Potters a 1-0 opening day victory.
That goal proved to be a sign of things to come, and the Chester-born defender went on to claim six more during the season.
Combining goal scoring with uncompromising, solid showings in defence, Tony Pulis paid £1 million to secure him on a full-time basis in January, 2008.
His assured performances at the heart of Stoke’s defence lead to an international call-up. Recognising his ability, England under-21 boss Stuart Pearce handed Shawcross his debut against Poland in March, 2008.
His achievements throughout the campaign lead to him being handed the Young Player of the Season award.
Before joining the Potters, the youngster had been given a rich footballing education at Manchester United’s renowned academy. To aid his development, Sir Alex Ferguson had loaned him out to Belgium side Royal Antwerp, where he caught the eye of City scouts, which lead to a move to the Potteries.
During his primary school days, Shawcross played representative level football for Flintshire Boys, this team which boasts Gary Speed, Michael Owen and Ian Rush among its former players.
After proving to be an integral part of Stoke’s return to the Premier League he’ll no doubt be hoping his fairytale debut season can be replicated in the top flight.

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