 Before the start of the 2008–09 season Stokes lost the Sunderland number 9 shirt and was handed the squad number 44 instead.On 23 September 2008, Stokes scored two late goals to level a League Cup tie against Northampton Town.On 17 October 2008, Stokes agreed a three-month loan deal to Sheffield United, with the possibility of extending it for the season.