John Stones has spoken about his most trying experiences at Manchester City and how he is looking to move forward.
Once upon a time, John Stones was one of Manchester City’s most important players and a first-team starter for the England national team.
However, the defender was out between December and February with thigh problems and even before then, he was struggling for game time.
Stones was frequently named on the Man City bench and this has continued, as he has not played any part in the club’s past four Premier League matches.
Despite this, the 31-year-old did start against Newcastle in the FA Cup and he even wore the captain’s armband during the victory at St James’ Park.
John Stones has endured hardships at Man City
While Stones is in good spirits after the weekend, he has not had an easy season at Man City with his fitness issues.
The centre-back has spoken about the ‘lonely times’ when he had to train alone, but he is determined to push forwards and write a new chapter at Man City.
Stones told TNT Sports Mexico: “Physically I feel great. The start of the season up until December when I got this problem in my calf, I felt great and had a great run in the team.
“I’m always trying to stay positive about these things [injuries] and it’s part of football. But nights like these [at Newcastle] make those tough times and the hard work worthwhile and the lonely times when you’re training by yourself and the guys behind the scenes are helping you.
“It’s difficult when you put everything in and be as professional as you can be and try and do all the right things and you don’t have the answers but it is what it is and we have to look forward.”
He continued: “I look forward now and look at this exciting time, important time. I’m sure the manager is happy and has a headache that he has everyone back playing well and on the other hand he has everyone to choose from for these big important games that we all want to get through and keep progressing and keep winning and put the pressure on in every situation.”
Stones enjoyed captaining Man City against Newcastle
Fate has not always been kind to Stones, but he was greatly encouraged by how he felt playing for Man City last Saturday.
Not only did Stones feel like he was back in the rhythm of a competitive match, but he was able to lead his team on the night.
“It felt great,” Stones added. “It took a little while to get the rhythm back and it’s something that will never change for a player when you’ve not been playing for a while no matter how many games you’ve played and how many times you’ve been in the big stages, being in a competitive match you can’t replicate it in training or however you try.
“To be out there, to feel comfortable and get the rhythm of the game is really pleasing for me personally. To win, to captain the team as well, a super proud night and an important one at that.”
