Joe Starbuck

Scunthorpe United secured the signing of defender Joe Starbuck in February 2025 following a successful trial period with the club.

The versatile full-back began his career in the academy system at Grimsby Town, progressing through the ranks and earning first-team opportunities before attracting the attention of Sheffield United. The Blades moved quickly to secure his signature, with Starbuck joining the Premier League club's academy setup and continuing his development in their Under-23 side.

During his time at Bramall Lane, Starbuck established himself as a consistent performer at youth level and gained valuable senior experience through loan spells in the National League North with Kidderminster Harriers and Boston United.

Following his departure from Sheffield United in the summer of 2023, Starbuck joined Tranmere Rovers, where he worked under former Iron manager Nigel Adkins. Although first-team opportunities were limited during his time at Prenton Park, the spell provided further experience in a professional environment and helped prepare him for the next stage of his career.

After impressing the coaching staff during a trial period, Starbuck earned a move to Scunthorpe United and quickly demonstrated the qualities that had attracted interest throughout his career.

Comfortable in a number of defensive positions, he combines athleticism, technical ability and a strong work ethic with a desire to continue developing his game.

Starbuck played his part during the Iron's promotion-winning 2024-25 campaign, providing important cover and competition across the defensive positions while continuing his development in a successful team environment. His commitment and professionalism ensured he was always ready when called upon as the club secured a return to the National League. He signed a two-year deal in the summer of 2025.

During the 2025-26 season, Starbuck continued to gain valuable experience at Step One level, making further appearances and demonstrating his versatility across a number of defensive roles. As one of the younger members of the squad, he showed significant progress throughout the campaign, earning praise for his work ethic, consistency and willingness to learn.