He’s back - Blues boss gives his verdict on Stones

AN injury-free run and positive mentality has allowed John Stones to turn around his City fortunes as he impressed again in the hard-fought win over Southampton.

Stones, starting his fourth game in the last five, has been one of

City’s stand-out performers in the last two months, winning back his place in

Pep Guardiola’s side and not letting go. Once more, he was solid at Southampton against the prolific Danny Ings and dangerous Che Adams.

Asked about Stones’ upturn in form after a difficult season in 2019/20, Guardiola declared that the player he signed from Everton in 2016 is back, suggesting he has also benefited from good form from his defensive colleagues.

“He’s back,” Guardiola said.

“He turned his situation perfectly. He played really well with Ruben as well, and Kyle and Joao. All the back four were brilliant and it was not easy.” Expanding on what has changed, Guardiola said Stones was more settled on and off the pitch, allowing him to focus on making the most of his obvious natural talent.

The manager said: “Himself. He was one of the first players we signed when we arrived here five years ago and he knows exactly what we have to do and what he has to do. Unfortunately he could not do it in previous year but now he has done it and he was himself.

“He has settled with his private life, no injuries and he can regularly show his personality with the ball, winning duels. We are delighted and especially because he is an incredibly nice person. His mum and dad must be so proud at how nice he is, and his daughter has a top father and that’s why.

“When the nice guys are in a good moment and bad moment helping the team, the people close to him are more than delighted that he can live this situation. He has to continue, be in the right position and continue doing what he has done this season.”