Stoke City's missed chance: Liam Millar shines at Birmingham City

Stoke City were interested in signing winger Liam Millar from Hull City in the summer transfer window but he joined Birmingham City on loan instead. The 26-year-old Canada international has since impressed with one goal and three assists in four appearances for the Blues, leading to suggestions that Stoke may regret missing out.

  • Player: Liam Millar, 26, Canada international winger
  • From: Hull City (contract expires June 2027, with 12-month extension option)
  • To: Birmingham City (loan until summer 2026)
  • Stoke interest: Linked with a move near the end of the summer transfer window but nothing materialised
  • Millar's stats: Four appearances, one goal, three assists for Birmingham
  • Stoke's alternative: Signed Justin Devenny from Crystal Palace; he scored twice on debut vs Charlton Athletic

Deal details

Stoke City were said to be keen on landing Liam Millar from Hull City towards the end of the summer transfer window, but no agreement was reached. The Potters pursued other targets, and Millar instead joined fellow Championship side Birmingham City on a temporary basis. The loan runs until at least next summer, and Birmingham are likely to pursue a permanent deal depending on how his spell goes.

Hull City allowed Millar to leave after Stoke City sold Sorba Thomas to the Tigers on deadline day. Millar's contract at Hull expires in June 2027, meaning he has entered his final year. The Tigers hold a 12-month option to extend his stay until 2028, so the ball lies in their court regarding his long-term future.

The numbers

  • Millar has made four appearances for Birmingham City in all competitions.
  • He has scored one goal and provided three assists.
  • Stoke City are currently sat inside the play-offs after eight fixtures, along with Middlesbrough, Wolves, West Brom, QPR and Bristol City.

Why Stoke City may regret missing out on Liam Millar

Liam Millar would have given Stoke City something different at the top end of the pitch. He is quick, tricky, and capable of cutting in on his right foot from the left flank. The Potters were in the market for reinforcements in that position after selling Sorba Thomas to Hull City on deadline day. Millar, a proven performer at second tier level, helped Hull City go up in the last campaign against the odds, beating Middlesbrough in the play-off final at Wembley.

Stoke instead signed Justin Devenny from Crystal Palace, who scored twice on his debut against Charlton Athletic. While Devenny has done well, he is a different player to both Thomas and Millar, and notably left-footed. That difference in profile means Stoke may lack the same right-footed threat from the left that Millar would have provided.

The ex-Fulham, Liverpool, and FC Basel man joined Hull City in 2024 under then-head coach Tim Walter. Before his move to the MKM Stadium, he spent time on loan at Preston North End. His experience and output in the Championship make him an attractive option that Stoke may revisit in the future.

Talking points

  • Stoke City's decision to pursue Justin Devenny instead of Liam Millar looks questionable given Millar's immediate impact at Birmingham; Devenny's brace on debut offers counter-argument.
  • Millar's loan form could force Hull City to reconsider their plans for him, especially with his contract expiring in 2027 and a 12-month extension option.
  • Birmingham City's impressive start, with Millar contributing four goal involvements in four games, raises questions about whether they can keep him permanently.
  • Stoke's play-off position after eight games suggests they are coping without Millar, but his creativity might have made them even stronger.

What happens next

Liam Millar will remain at Birmingham City until at least next summer, with the Blues likely to pursue a permanent deal depending on his performances. Stoke City have the opportunity to bolster their ranks again in January, and they could rekindle their interest in Millar if he continues to impress. Hull City will monitor his progress closely, as his contract situation gives them control over his future beyond 2027.

Frequently asked questions

Did Stoke City try to sign Liam Millar?

Yes, Stoke City were said to be interested in signing Liam Millar from Hull City near the end of the summer transfer window, but nothing materialised and he joined Birmingham City on loan instead.

How has Liam Millar performed for Birmingham City?

Millar has made four appearances for Birmingham City, scoring one goal and providing three assists, becoming an important player for Chris Davies' side.

When does Liam Millar's Hull City contract expire?

Millar's contract at Hull City expires in June 2027, but the Tigers hold a 12-month option to extend his stay until 2028.

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