What does Aaron Cresswell offer Stoke?

Aaron Cresswell has joined Stoke City on a one-year contract after leaving West Ham United. The experienced left-back, a three-time England international, adds valuable depth to the team following their recent struggles. Callum Pawley explains what Cresswell offers Stoke as they aim for a better season.

INMR

July 29, 2025

2 minutes

With over 300 appearances in the Premier League, as well as just under 600 in senior football, Aaron Cresswell brings a wealth of experience to Stoke City.

The three-time England international signed an initial one-year contract at the club, with an option to extend for a further 12 months.

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Bought in on a free after the expiration of his contract at West Ham United, the 35-year-old left-back is a smart addition by manager Mark Robins as he and his side look to improve upon last season’s 18th-place finish, which saw them go to the final day without their Championship safety secured.

While the signing of Creswell might not get Potters fans out of their seats, his introduction to the team should prove a key bit of business.

While boasting extensive experience, it should be noted that Cresswell still possesses the ability and fitness levels necessary to perform in the Championship.

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The defender featured 20 times for West Ham last season, with 18 of those appearances coming in the Premier League.

The majority of those games missed were through selection choices, rather than unavailability. As such, he should be capable of featuring more in the Championship, featuring weekly for Stoke.

Creswell is one of four new signings made by Robins, joining Sorba Thomas, Maksym Talovierov and Divin Mubama at the Bet365 Stadium. Those mentioned can all be deemed as shroud pieces of business by the club, and should help the Potters rise in the table next season.

During his time at West Ham, Creswell won the UEFA Europa Conference League, as well as the Player’s Player and Hammer of the Year awards in 2015.

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Most notably during his career, the left-sided defender earned three caps for England under Gareth Southgate. He made his debut for England as a substitute in England’s 2-2 draw with Spain at Wembley in 2016.

As for Stoke, more signings are expected as Robins continues in his first transfer window as manager of the club. An overhaul of the squad was expected, and a number of players have been allowed to leave the club.

Stoke open their campaign at home to Derby County, the same opposition they faced on the final day of last season.

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Written by Callum Pawley