England must build momentum, says Stones
ENGLAND DEFENDER WANTS TO BEAT BELGIUM AND FINISH ON TOP OF GROUP
John Stones knows the value of momentum from Manchester City’s recordbreaking Premier League campaign and wants England to keep the winning feelingalivewithvictoryover Belgium on Thursday.
Both sides are already through to the last 16 of the World Cup, meaning their match in Kaliningrad is all about settling first and second place in Group G.
At present it looks as though runners-up spot may be rewarded with a gentler route through the knockouts, while a quarter-final meeting against Germany or Brazil potentially awaits the victor.
But there appears little appetite in the England camp to soft pedal after back-toback wins over Tunisia and Panama – with Stones channelling the hunger which drove City to reach the magical 100-point barrier last season.
“We want to win,” was his decisive take.
“I think we’ve got to keep a winning run going and that’s what I’ve brought from City to here: you’ve got to keep that momentum going.
“It’s always an added bonus to take it into the next game. I’m trying to keep improving and keep winning games.
“We want to be winners at the end of the day, that’s why we’re in the competition.”
Stones, for one, heads into the game on a high.
He played a key role in the 6-1 thumping of Panama, scoring his first two England goals from headers and turning in an assured display at the heart of the back three.
As he reflected on his growing status, Stones was quick to credit his advancement under City boss Pep Guardiola.
“He’s just simplified everything, the way he speaks to you, the way he gives you advice and tells you how to play,” said the 24-year-old.
“From two years ago to now, I’m a different person, a different player. It’s down to him and my team-mates.
“As a kid I never thought I’d even get a chance to play for England let alone score. It’s not really sunk in to be honest.”
Midfielder Ruben LoftusCheek shares Stones’ desire to press for another three points, insisting England have no reason to run scared of any possible opponents.
“We don’t want to take our foot off the gas with the performancesweareputting in now,” he said.
“We won’t fear anyone. We just want to put on a good performance for the fans.”
Thursday’s clash is sure to throw up plenty of intrigue for fans of the Premier League, with Belgium boasting a squad containing 12 England-based players, many of whom share clubs with their English opponents.
‘We want to be winners at the end of the day - that’s why we’re in the