He could even be a top football manager at the end of it all!

The 19-year-old suffered a double fracture of his left leg against MK Dons on February 9 and had two weeks in hospital before returning home to Rotherham to continue his recuperation which includes plenty of time on the settee.

When he finally returned to Millmoor last week as he undertook his rehabilitation, his colleagues had a surprise for him - they presented him with Playstation 3.

"The lads had got together and had a whip-round and bought me that, it was a big surprise and a great gesture," said Stephen.

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"It was really nice that they should have been thinking about me and done something like this. It shows the spirit there is among them.

"They've all been up to see me at some stage, which is nice, but with an injury like this they're long hours when you're sitting in the house. So this is going to get some use."

His rehab work at the club's training ground, with the 'pot' now off, is only small scale but important as he gets ankle and knee flexible again with leg massage as well to help break down scar tissue.

It will be a slow build-up and will continue it in the swimming pool soon.

"I know people have talked about nine months out but I'm just concentrating on the small goals that are being set for each day, each week and I'll be back," he added.

Last Saturday, Stephen - known to his teammates as 'Paddy' - saw his first match since his injury, the 2-1 win over Chesterfield.

"The supporters were great, wishing me all the best, and I've had so many cards and good wishes since it happened and on behalf of myself and my family. I'd just like to thank everyone who took the trouble to write or call, it really is appreciated.

"I was just delighted that the lads won but, in a way, it was hard watching and not being able to be out there helping them. I'm not a great watcher but I suppose I'll have to get used to it for bit."

Manager Mark Robins said that his return had actually given the players a lift.

"It's nice having him around the place again and the players have looked after him. Apparently he's on that Playstation 3 a lot so he's probably on that football manager game. He'll probably come back a successful manager!," he said.

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