- John Stones linked with Man City exit
- Contract expires this summer
- Defender has one big issue
John Stones might experience problems finding a new club once the season ends, but this is not Manchester City’s concern.
Manchester City will be looking to offload a number of players this summer, one of whom is England international John Stones.
Recently, Stones left the England squad before playing a single match of their March friendlies. This was because he picked up yet another injury, which has very much been his story of the season.
Therefore, City have no further reason to hold onto the defender, who has been linked with Everton this month.
John Stones is a risky signing
Stones offers a wealth of experience and he has become a proven winner since making the move to Man City.
However, his injury problems are no secret. Therefore, while his former club are interested in securing his signature, he could still have a hard time finding a new team to represent.
Ex-scout Mick Brown told Football Insider: “The only concern about John Stones, and it’s a big one, is his fitness,” Brown told Football Insider.
“Everybody agreed that when he’s fit, he is a top-class footballer who would improve most teams in the country, but if that was the case he’d be staying at City.
“The problem he has is he barely plays more than 20 games per season at the moment and that’s going to be a major concern for any interested club.
“Everton have been looking at bringing him back, but again the doubt has always been whether it’s worth it given the money they’d be paying him,” he continued.
“From what I hear, though, they might be willing to take that gamble on him.
“They’ll have to manage his minutes carefully to make sure they don’t put more pressure on him, but if they can do that and keep him fit, it would be a great signing.
“David Moyes wants to add experience and quality to his side, and Stones brings plenty of that with everything he’s done at Man City.”
Brown added: “So it’s just about weighing that up against his availability, but if they do decide he is worth it, it’s definitely a deal I can see them going for.”
Stones is an injury scare
This season, Stones has only made 15 appearances in all competitions for Man City. This is partially down to the fact that the club now have stronger options, but his injury concerns are definitely a factor as well.
The centre-back has already missed two months of action due to a thigh injury, and now he is out of action again.
Last season was no better, as Stones was unavailable due to a hamstring problem and two separate foot injuries.
Stones still has a lot to offer
Despite his injury prone nature, Stones would be a very good signing for Everton if he is able to spend more of his time on the pitch.
Since departing Goodison Park, the 31-year-old has learned what it means to win and he has shown himself to be a capable leader.
Indeed, even this season, Stones has worn the captain’s armband in four fixtures, spanning three different competitions.
Therefore, he is definitely a player who could do very well at another Premier League club. It is just about whether or not he is able to remain fit.
