Josef Bursik, a professional goalkeeper noted for his command of the penalty area and shot-stopping capability, was born on 12th July 2000 in England. He currently plies his trade at Hibernian standing at a towering 6ft 1in (1.87m) and weighing 12st 1lb (77kg), with the number 1 adorned on his jersey.
Bursik began his professional journey in July 2016 as a trainee at AFC Wimbledon in England's League Two. After spending a year within their ranks, he transferred to Stoke City in the Championship in July 2017 for an undisclosed fee. Here, he accumulated a considerable degree of experience and match time, making a total of 50 first-team league appearances over three seasons (2020-2023).
In his time at Stoke City, Bursik was subject to several loan spells aimed at developing his craft through regular game time. The first of these was in August 2019, moving temporarily to Accrington Stanley in League Two. The next loan spell started in August 2020, this time with Doncaster Rovers, once again in League Two. Both these returns to lower-tier football provided him with valuable experience and exposure.
In April 2021, Bursik transferred on loan to Peterborough United in League One, then concluded another loan spell at Lincoln City in League One from May 2021 until June of the same year. After these various forays in the English lower leagues, Bursik made his move abroad in January 2023, transferring from Stoke City to Belgian side Club Brugge in the Pro League once again for an undisclosed fee.
His stint in Belgium was relatively short-lived as Bursik made his way to Hibernian, plying his trade in the Scottish Premiership, in July 2024 on loan. In the current season (2024-2025), he has already made 13 first-team appearances in league matches and remains a crucial part of Hibernian's defence. In addition to his league contributions, he also has four starts in the League Cup 2024-2025 season for Hibernian.
Bursik's career, filled with multiple loan spells and clubs, exhibits the typical journey of young goalkeepers looking to garner experience and match time necessary for their development. The 24-year old's progress will be something to keep an eye on as he continues his professional journey, with a particular spotlight on his current season in Scotland at Hibernian.
