I'm not in any way doubting that he's an important player for us, I think he's great. He does as you say do the 'dirtier side' well, and does contribute occasionally with a goal (much like SS and BK).
My observation however is that more often than not he doesn't 'shine' quite as brightly as...
Honestly I don't know what to make of Stephens.
He's a good player, no doubt. He contributes to the team and is a reassuring presence in the middle of the pitch.
But it's very rare in my opinion, that he stands out as having a really good game. He strikes me as the weaker link in almost any...