- Stockport County have re-signed forward Louie Barry from Premier League side Aston Villa for his third loan spell with the club.
- The 22-year-old returns to the Hatters having previously scored 25 goals in 45 appearances across two loan stints at Edgeley Park.
- Since his last loan with Stockport at the beginning of last season, Barry has spent time on loan with Hull City and Sheffield United.
- A knee injury requiring surgery has limited his gametime during those spells.
- In a statement, Stockport said the move would allow him to continue his recovery and the club will “hopefully see him pull on a County shirt once again in the final few weeks of the campaign”.
- Stockport boss Dave Challinor said: “Whether Louie plays a massive part, a small part or even no part, the desire for all parties to reunite him back with the football club was unanimous.”
- Challinor added: “His connection with the club has become a special one from both sides and the impact he has had within our team when playing has been huge.”
- Challinor noted: “He’s obviously returning from an injury which required surgery, and we are in the hands of the medical teams as to when he returns. He’s stepping up his rehab and should be back running in the coming week or so and, all things being equal, we may see him back out on the pitch somewhere around the middle of March.”
- Challinor concluded: “If it’s quicker, fantastic, if it’s not, then so be it. We are doing this as a ‘possibility’ signing, but are very clear as to what could or could not happen.”
Stockport (Manchester Mirror) February 4, 2026 – Stockport County have re-signed talented forward Louie Barry from Premier League giants Aston Villa on a third loan deal, boosting the League Two leaders’ attacking options as they chase promotion. The 22-year-old returns to Edgeley Park after previously netting 25 goals in 45 appearances during two prior spells with the Hatters. This move comes amid Barry’s ongoing recovery from a knee injury that sidelined him during recent loans at Hull City and Sheffield United.
Who is Louie Barry and Why Has Stockport Re-Signed Him?
Louie Barry, a 22-year-old forward from Aston Villa’s academy, has rejoined Stockport County for a third loan stint. As reported across multiple outlets covering the story, Barry’s previous contributions at Edgeley Park were immense, with 25 goals in 45 games across his first two loans. Stockport’s official statement highlights that this deal facilitates his rehabilitation, stating the club will “hopefully see him pull on a County shirt once again in the final few weeks of the campaign”.
Dave Challinor, Stockport’s manager, emphasised the mutual desire for the reunion. In quotes attributed to him by club channels, Challinor said: “Whether Louie plays a massive part, a small part or even no part, the desire for all parties to reunite him back with the football club was unanimous.” This underscores the strong bond formed during Barry’s prior tenures.
Barry’s versatility and proven goalscoring record make him a valuable asset, even if his immediate involvement hinges on medical clearance.
What Were Louie Barry’s Previous Achievements at Stockport?
During his initial two loan spells at Stockport County, Louie Barry scored an impressive 25 goals in 45 appearances. These stints helped propel the Hatters towards promotion pushes in League Two. His clinical finishing and pace terrorised defences, cementing his status as a fan favourite.
The forward’s impact was not just statistical; it fostered a “special” connection with the club, as noted by manager Dave Challinor. Challinor remarked: “His connection with the club has become a special one from both sides and the impact he has had within our team when playing has been huge.” This history explains the enthusiasm for his return.
Stockport’s decision reflects confidence in Barry’s ability to contribute once fit, drawing on his past heroics at Edgeley Park.
How Has a Knee Injury Affected Louie Barry’s Recent Career?
Since departing Stockport at the start of last season, Louie Barry endured loans at Hull City and Sheffield United, but a serious knee injury requiring surgery curtailed his progress. This setback dramatically limited his gametime across both Championship clubs.
Manager Dave Challinor addressed the injury directly, stating: “He’s obviously returning from an injury which required surgery, and we are in the hands of the medical teams as to when he returns.” Barry is now “stepping up his rehab and should be back running in the coming week or so”.
Challinor projected a potential return “somewhere around the middle of March”, adding: “If it’s quicker, fantastic, if it’s not, then so be it.” This pragmatic approach positions the signing as a “possibility” rather than a guaranteed starter.
When Might Fans See Louie Barry Back on the Pitch for Stockport?
Stockport anticipate Louie Barry could resume running within the coming week, with a full return to pitch action eyed for mid-March. Dave Challinor outlined: “He’s stepping up his rehab and should be back running in the coming week or so and, all things being equal, we may see him back out on the pitch somewhere around the middle of March.”
The club’s statement aligns, expressing hope to see him play “in the final few weeks of the campaign”. This timeline suits Stockport’s promotion charge, allowing Barry to build fitness without rushing.
Challinor stressed flexibility: “We are doing this as a ‘possibility’ signing, but are very clear as to what could or could not happen.” Medical teams will dictate the pace.
What Does Stockport County Boss Dave Challinor Say About the Signing?
Dave Challinor, Stockport County boss, was unequivocal about the appeal of bringing Louie Barry back. He stated: “Whether Louie plays a massive part, a small part or even no part, the desire for all parties to reunite him back with the football club was unanimous.”
Challinor praised Barry’s legacy: “His connection with the club has become a special one from both sides and the impact he has had within our team when playing has been huge.” On the injury, he deferred to experts while remaining optimistic.
This third loan reflects strategic planning for Stockport’s title tilt, valuing Barry’s potential upside.
Why is This Loan a ‘Possibility Signing’ for Stockport?
Stockport framed Louie Barry’s return as a “possibility signing” due to injury uncertainties. Boss Dave Challinor explained: “We are doing this as a ‘possibility’ signing, but are very clear as to what could or could not happen.” This cautious optimism prioritises recovery.
The move enables Barry to rehab in a familiar environment post-surgery. It minimises risk for Aston Villa while offering Stockport late-season firepower.
Challinor’s comments highlight unanimous intent: “The desire for all parties to reunite him back with the football club was unanimous.” Mutual benefits drive the deal.
How Does This Fit Stockport County’s Promotion Push?
Stockport County top League Two, and Louie Barry’s potential return bolsters their squad depth. His 25 prior goals underscore his promotion pedigree. Even limited minutes could prove decisive in the run-in.
Manager Dave Challinor views it holistically: “Whether Louie plays a massive part, a small part or even no part…” This flexibility suits a title race.
The club’s statement ties it to the “final few weeks of the campaign”, aligning with critical fixtures.
What is the Context of Barry’s Time at Hull and Sheffield United?
Post-Stockport, Louie Barry joined Hull City and then Sheffield United on loan, but knee issues hampered him. Gametime was scarce, shifting focus to rehabilitation.
This contrasts sharply with his Edgeley Park exploits, where he thrived. The third Stockport loan leverages that familiarity for recovery.
Aston Villa’s involvement ensures a nurturing pathway back to full fitness.
Stockport County’s re-signing of Louie Barry marks a sentimental and strategic coup. With promotion in sight, his story adds intrigue to the Hatters’ campaign. Fans eagerly await mid-March developments.
