Of Martin Graham
England and Manchester City defender John Stones He has admitted that injuries last season let him question his future in football.
The 31-year-old Center-Back managed only 11 appearances in the Premier League in the previous campaign, as feet and ropes problems altered its progress. Its season ended prematurely in February due to a theme of hamstrings.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 live, Stones said that constant physical problems affected. “Last season it was difficult for me, to the point that I thought of stopping,” he said. “I had had enough to be so professional and try to do it well in my power, just to keep breaking and not having the answers. It was a very difficult place to be.”
Since joining the City of Everton in 2016, Stones has never participated in a single league season more than 27 times. He described the frustration of injury despite meticulous preparation. “When you make so much effort, or you are an ultra professional, and something happens, it is a mental challenge,” he added. “Hopefully do not return to this place.”
Determination of continuing to fight
Stones has participated in five games so far this season but Pep Guardiola has preferred Rubn days and If the gvviool as a central defensive pairing. Despite the moments of doubt, the experienced defender insists that his competitive impulse is still strong.
“My emotions were high. I didn’t think directly. I don’t think in the background I would have ever done it (retired),” he said. “I said years ago when City wanted to have a new challenge, I said” I’m going to fight. “
He has represented England in five major tournaments, but has not played in the national team since October 2024. Thomas Tuchel, who became manager of England in January, has included him in the squad for the friendly against Wembley on Thursday and the described in the World Cup in Letvia on October 14. A victory in Riga would guarantee the qualification of England for the summer tournament that comes to the United States, Canada and Mexico.
England’s role is still significant
Tuchel made it clear that no player is insured in a place in his teams, with Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham and Jack Grealish omitted. However, the importance of Stones was emphasized when, as it was left out in June, he was invited to a training camp in Spain to support the group.
“My love for England, I think it’s hard to put it in words. I love England, I love to play England,” said Stones. He explained that he accepted Tuchel’s invitation without hesitation, “I knew I was training alone for myself, being in a difficult place.
The defender described the experience as “a special moment” that allowed him to support teammates and offer guidance during his recovery period.
Gordon eager to improve for England
Newcastle end, Anthony Gordon, has attracted the attention of the left flank under Tuchel, but he feels that he can still offer -more. “I think I’ve probably been 50% in a England T -shirt,” he admitted. “I’m not anywhere else where I can go. But I feel more comfortable every time I play.”
Gordon said he intends to take advantage of his performance against Serbia, adding that Tuchel is not surprised by the same group from September. He described that camp as “the best that I have been part of the vibration of the camp” because “everything clicked and off the pitch”.
