Stones reflects on career low before World Cup selection
8 reported
John Stones has said he had to "dig deep" to overcome one of the most challenging periods of his career before being selected in England's 26-player World Cup squad. The 32-year-old defender, who will be playing in his sixth major tournament for England, revealed last October that he considered retirement after a string of injuries. Stones is in line to start England's tournament opener against Croatia on Wednesday, according to the report. He is highly regarded by manager Thomas Tuchel, who picked him ahead of Harry Maguire and Levi Colwill. Stones, who announced in April he will leave Manchester City this summer, played only 439 minutes of Premier League football in the season just ended. He missed two months with a thigh injury and sat out England's two pre-squad friendlies due to a calf injury, but said he has been "fit, pretty much all season."
What’s reported
John Stones is 32 years old and part of England's 26-player World Cup squad.
He considered retirement last October after a string of injuries.
Stones is in line to start England's tournament opener against Croatia on Wednesday.
He is highly regarded by manager Thomas Tuchel, who picked him ahead of Harry Maguire and Levi Colwill.
Stones played 439 minutes of Premier League football in the season just ended and featured in 18 games for Manchester City across all competitions.
He missed two months with a thigh injury and sat out England's two pre-squad friendlies due to a calf injury.
Stones announced in April he will leave Manchester City this summer.
This will be his sixth major tournament for England.
Key figures
John Stones, England defender
Thomas Tuchel, England manager
Ezri Konsa, Aston Villa defender
Marc Guehi, Manchester City defender
Harry Maguire, England defender (not selected)
Levi Colwill, England defender (not selected)
Sources: BBC News
