Matt Baker (footballer, born 2003)

Matthew Baker (born 6 February 2003) is a professional footballer who plays as a defender for club Newport County and the Wales under-21 national team.

Club career
Baker progressed through the Gillingham youth system and signed for Stoke City in June 2021. He moved on loan to Newport County in January 2023 for the remainder of the 2022–23 season. He made his Football League debut for Newport on 14 February 2023 in the League Two 2–2 draw against Stevenage. Baker made 18 appearances for Newport helping them finish in 15th position. In September 2023 Baker re-joined Newport County on loan for the 2023–24 season. Baker made 39 appearances for the Exiles as they finished in 18th position. In May 2024, Stoke City offered Baker a contract extension.

On 1 July 2024, Baker returned to Newport County on a permanent two-year deal after both clubs had reached a compensation agreement.

International career
Baker is from Kent and qualifies for Wales through his mother who was born in Narberth, Pembrokeshire. He is a Wales youth international and captained them at under-19 level. On 26 March 2023 Baker made his Wales under-21 debut in the starting line-up for the 3–0 friendly match win against Scotland under-21 in Spain. He later became under-21 captain.

In June 2024 Baker was called up to the Wales senior squad for the first time.