Lee Carsley hinted at a couple of changes for England’s upcoming match, and one of the most likely switches could involve bringing John Stones into the starting lineup. Stones, who made a late substitute appearance against Ireland, was a key player in all eight of England’s European Championship matches last summer and is often hailed as the nation’s top defender.
Despite limited game time at Manchester City this season, with just 45 minutes under his belt before the international break, the national fixtures could help Stones regain momentum and force his way back into Pep Guardiola’s plans. After all, City fans will vividly remember his monumental performance in the 2023 Champions League final. However, the unfortunate reality is that England have seen more of Stones than City have in recent times.
Stones has been a starter in eight of England’s last nine games, yet he’s only managed to start one of City’s last nine fixtures. To find nine consecutive starts for him at the club, you’d have to rewind to February 20—almost seven months ago. At his best, Stones can slot into any team in world football, and his hybrid role significantly enhances City’s ability to control games.
But while Stones’ best version elevates City, the club has coped well in his absence. Manuel Akanji and Ruben Dias have formed a solid defensive partnership, Kyle Walker has owned the right-back position, and young Rico Lewis—who pioneered the hybrid role that Stones perfected during City’s Treble-winning season—has seized his opportunities at the start of this campaign.
There’s no doubt Stones will get chances to play as the congested fixture schedule rolls on, and his influence is such that he could quickly re-establish himself as a starter. At 30, Stones has the kind of impact that can alter Guardiola’s tactical approach overnight. However, with fierce competition in City’s backline, nothing will come easy. Despite being a guaranteed pick for England, Stones is moving into the final 18 months of his contract with City, and his future is still up for consideration.
City fans will forever cherish Stones’ memorable moments, from his standout display in Istanbul to that iconic goalline clearance against Liverpool in 2019. As he remains beloved by supporters, there’s hope that he can deliver more iconic moments in a City shirt and once again show the club the consistency and reliability he continues to offer England.
