Shotton impressed during pre-season, including during the 2-2 draw with the Rams at Pride Park, but has since failed to find a way into the Potters XI due to the form of Andy Wilkinson.
The 21-year-old started out as a centre back with the Potters academy and was captain and the star of the team, completely dominant in the air, and transferred this to reserve team football. The last two seasons Shotton has spent out on loan to Conference side Altrincham and League One Tranmere, winning many plaudits for his committed and skillful performances, especially at Tranmere where he was deployed mainly as a right back and netted eight goals during his two spells there.
Calm on the ball Shotton has admitted his defensive game needs working on at full back but it is clear to see he has the natural attributes to attack from the full back positions.
The Fenton born star made his first team Stoke debut as a last minute sub against Cheltenham in last seasons Carling Cup before leaving on loan the day after and, after being given his first competitive Potters start in this seasons Carling Cup trip to Leyton Orient, he is sure to be involved in tomorrows tie with Blackpool before joining up with the Rams and continuing his natural progression up the leagues.