Stoke City recall Nathan Lowe from Walsall loan

Lowe will return to the Bet365 with immediate effect after the Potters triggered the recall option in the loan agreement for the teenager. 

The 19-year-old netted 18 goals and set-up seven more in 30 appearances during his memorable four-month stay at Bescot. 

He leads the way in the race for the League Two golden boot after extending his league tally to 15 with the final goal in Walsall's 5-1 rout over Tranmere Rovers on Saturday. 

His glittering spell heralded the EFL Young Player of the Month award for October while his tally of five goals in six games last month earned him the League Two Player of the Month in December. 

A club statement read: "Whilst we are disappointed to be losing his services, we are incredibly proud of the progress he has made during his time with us. 

"We will be watching Nathan's career continue to develop with a keen eye and immense pride, and wish him all the best in the next chapter of what will no doubt be a fantastic journey for him and his family. 

"Everybody at the football club will work tirelessly to keep progressing and support Mat, the staff and the team as we look forward to the rest of the season. 

"Our recruitment team have been preparing for all eventualities ahead of, and during the window, and we will work through our options immediately." 

There has been speculation surrounding Lowe's future since the January transfer window opened for business just under a fortnight ago. 

Newly-appointed Stoke boss Mark Robins said that a decision was yet to be made when he was questioned about Lowe's situation on Friday. 

Lowe returned to his parent club to train alongside fellow Stoke loanee Tommy Simkin earlier this week. 

Walsall set a club record eight-match winning streak in the league on the weekend and sit 12 points clear at the League Two summit.