The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Guardiola says criticism aimed at Stones is unfair
Pep Guardiola has backed John Stones amid fresh criticism of the Manchester City defender’s form.
The England centre-back endured a difficult game as the champions were held to a 2-2 draw by Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday.
The spotlight has been on Stones following the departure of Vincent Kompany and the long-term injury suffered by Aymeric Laporte, and his fortunes have been mixed.
Guardiola said of the criticism: “It’s unfair, yes. We are there (for him), I am there. There are ups and downs in your career so you have to be strong. We know his quality.”
Stones, whose role in both of Palace’s goals was questioned, is a doubt for tonight’s trip to Sheffield United with a leg injury.
“I have to speak with the doctors,” said Guardiola when asked about his availability.
The Palace result enabled runaway leaders Liverpool to extend their advantage at the top to 16 points.
It has been a hugely disappointing title defence from City, who have long since conceded defeat to the Merseysiders.
City’s shortcomings have taxed Guardiola throughout the campaign and he is not resting as he tries to put things right. The former Barcelona boss said: “The games are good, we concede few, but the opponents score goals from few chances. That’s difficult to solve but we need to improve in this area.
“We’ve scored more goals than Liverpool, so our way is good, and we concede few. I don’t have the statistics but I don’t think there are many teams that concede fewer chances.
“But even with that we concede goals that punish us and see us drop points. When that happens it’s difficult to fight against Liverpool, or in knockout competitions, and we have to improve in this area.”
The targets for City are now the Champions League and the domestic cups, while aiming to secure second in the Premier League. Guardiola feels he could learn something from Sheffield United, who are seventh in the table.
He said: “I’m incredibly impressed. When people say if you can improve watching other teams and other managers, then this is the one. I have never seen some of the movements they are doing. There’s a reason why they are in the position they are.”