Jayden Stockley

AFC Bournemouth

Jayden Connor Stockley was born on 15 September 1993 in Poole, Dorset. He attended Lytchett Minster School. He started his career as a youth player at AFC Bournemouth, entering the Centre of Excellence aged seven. He enjoyed being at the club, though came close to joining Portsmouth when Bournemouth entered administration in 2008. At the age of 16 years, manager Eddie Howe called him up to be a substitute for their match at home to Burton Albion on 26 September 2009, due to an injury crisis within the Bournemouth squad, and the block on Bournemouth's transfer activity as they owed money to HM Revenue and Customs. Howe needed permission from his school, as he had to miss exam preparation. Howe said; "I had to phone Jayden's school to get permission to let him play against Burton and I shall call them again to see if they'll let me have him on Tuesday". He made his debut for Bournemouth on 6 October away against Northampton Town in their 2–1 defeat in the Football League Trophy; Danny Ings also debuted in the game. Stockley was the second youngest player to ever take to the field for Bournemouth. Responding to his age, he said; "At the end of the day, you have to get on with your job—it doesn't matter how old you are. There are no excuses. If Eddie thinks I am ready to come in now then I'm ready." Stockley made his debut in the Football League in Bournemouth's subsequent League Two game against Chesterfield on 10 October, replacing Ryan Garry as a…

Stockley reportedly scored more headed goals in 2018 than any player in the top European leagues. He was nicknamed 'the headmaster' at Charlton. In 2021, he said that "there has got to be fast and creative players around me" as he lacks pace, though he can hold the ball up and bring others into play.

As of match played 7 September 2026

Stockley's third child was born in March 2022. He supports Manchester United and Lancashire County Cricket Club. He holds a master's degree in sports business.