Really dont think it is about KR not rating Stevens, infact from what I've heard its the opposite and he is well regarded by both the squad's senior pros and the management team themselves.
The dilema is would any manager go into the potential next eight weeks without Eastie and have a 22 year old with 4 first team starts and a 20 year old with no starts on the bench ! in a team threatening to be in the mix for promotion and fighting on all cup fronts still.
My guess will be that an emergancy loan (free agent) will be found but would not be surprised if Stevens keeps the gloves during Easties absence and the loanee acts as backup, especially if Stevens does well tomorrow night.