ROCK-SOLID STONES STILL IMPROVING

JOHN STONES can still find another level at Manchester City, says Joleon Lescott.

The defender, 26, was brought in by Pep Guardiola for

£47.5million in 2016.

At the time, the transfer from Everton made Stones the second most expensive defender in history.

And Lescott, who won two Premier League titles with City, says too much pressure was placed on the Barnsley-born star’s shoulders.

“Expectation was higher than most people,” he said.

“Did we expect the same level from Harry Maguire at Manchester United as we did from Stones when he joined City, even though Maguire went for a bigger fee? I’m not sure.

“In the early stages of his City career, everyone expected him to be the best in the world and compared him to Rio Ferdinand at such a young age.

“People forget Ferdinand’s best years were at United when he was getting older. Defenders often get better in the latter stages of their career.

“Whatever form he has over the next 18 months, I still believe his best years are ahead of him.

“As a centre-back, your late

20s and early 30s are when you’re at your peak physically and in terms of having a better understanding of the game.”

Stones’ has muscled his way back into first-team contention at City and has performed impressively in recent weeks.

A contract extension now looks on the cards and Lescott added: “It’s possible the guys that were brought in during the summer have regalvanized his focus and his determination to make a mark on this team.

“It definitely didn’t bode well a few months ago. The club brought in Ruben Dias to play alongside Aymeric Laporte, but injuries have played a part.

“I’m just glad to see him back and doing well.”