Stones is rock solid for Everton

AS ‘Money can’t buy you Stones’ and ‘£40million? You’re having a laugh’ rang out simultaneously at White Hart Lane, the country’s most coveted defender quietly got on with his business and all but marked Harry Kane out of the game. John Stones has been the subject of a big-money bid by Chelsea and been called a rat by his own fans in the last week, but his assured display hinted at strength of character that belies his age. Roberto Martinez, the Everton manager, hailed the 21-year-old’s maturity and professionalism, even tipping him as a future England captain. ‘It’s been difficult for everyone, especially for him,’ Martinez said. ‘Probably the only place he has found a little bit of freedom has been on the pitch. ‘You saw a 21-year-old deal with that pressure and play in that manner. For me it shows he has the potential to be England captain. ‘He has always been a top professional and is a true Evertonian.’ Tottenham’s Eric Dier played down the pressure on Kane, who failed to score again and had one glaring miss when clean through. Dier said: ‘I don’t think anyone should be worried, especially Harry. I am sure once he gets that first goal, he will score loads. We defended well and got a clean sheet, which is important.’ SUPERSTAT: Harry Kane has scored just two goals from 28 shots in his last 12 league games.

TOTTENHAM (4-2-3-1): Lloris 7; Walker 6, Alderweireld 7, Vertonghen 7, Rose 6; Dier 6.5, Bentaleb 6; Dembele 6.5 (Alli 53min, 6), Mason 6.5 (Pritchard 85), Chadli 6.5; Kane 6.5. Subs not

used: Vorm, Lamela, Trippier, Pritchard, Carroll, Davies. Booked: Alli, Dier, Bentaleb, Chadli. EVERTON (4-2-3-1): Howard 7.5; Coleman 7, Jagielka 6.5, Stones 7, Oviedo 6.5; McCarthy 6.5, Barry 7; Kone 6 (Deulofeu 84), Barkley 7, Cleverley 6 (Mirallas 45, 6); Lukaku 6 (Naismith 69, 6.5). Subs not used: Robles, Besic, Browning, Pennington.

Booked: Barry.

Man of the match: Tim Howard. Referee: Mike Jones 6.