AFC Bournemouth sought permission from Saints to use loanee Jack Stephens in their under-21s Premier League Cup match at the weekend, the Daily Echo understands.
The 28-year-old defender played the full 90 minutes and scored a solo goal as Cherries came from behind to defeat Derby County 2-1 in Dorset.
Stephens joined Bournemouth on loan towards the end of the summer on deadline day, having played just 45 minutes of Premier League football for Ralph Hasenhuttl this campaign.
The Torpoint-born ace, who arrived at St Mary’s over a decade ago, made his league debut for the south-coast neighbours as a late substitute in their 1-1 draw with Newcastle United.
Understand #SaintsFC had to agree to allow Stephens to play in an under-23s game.
— Jack Tanner 🏴 (@EchoSportJack) September 26, 2022
In order to build up his fitness, Bournemouth wanted to use him in the opening match of the Premier League Cup youth competition alongside their development side.
They had to seek permission from Saints to do so, while Stephens agreed to play happily and was credited for ‘setting an example’ by coach Shaun Cooper.
Cooper said: “I mean, there's no surprises. We know he is a quality player, he came in and he was just that. But the best thing about Jack is his attitude, his professionalism.
“To want to play was the first thing, but then to handle himself as professionally as he did and set the example, and guide and communicate to the rest of the players throughout the game.”
Stephens could feature for Bournemouth when they face Brentford at Vitality Stadium on Saturday, October 1 (3PM).
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