Garth Crooks believes John Stones was the standout performer for Manchester City in their 1-1 draw against Liverpool.
Perhaps some would argue that despite City’s underwhelming display at Anfield, Rodri managed to maintain his high standards.
Apart from John Stones and the Spaniard, not many Sky Blues players covered themselves in glory on Sunday.
Garth Crooks says John Stones was the “best player” for Manchester City against Liverpool
It seemed like City seemed destined to beat an injury-riddled Liverpool side after Stones’ opener, as the visitors had kicked off proceedings in style, largely looking slick for the first quarter of the contest.
However, things went from bad to worse for the treble-winners as the Reds once again proved why their ground is one of, if not the toughest to visit for any team in world football.
Garth Crooks lauded John Stones, who he thought stood out for Manchester City against Liverpool.
“What a fabulous game of football, but if you had told me that by the end of the game, [Kevin] De Bruyne would have been substituted, [Erling] Haaland practically non-existent and [John] Stones City’s best player, I would never have believed you”, he said on BBC Sport.
“Stones was outstanding and getting more confident in his new central midfield role with every game.”
John Stones was brilliant against Jurgen Klopp and Co.
In our view, Garth Crooks is absolutely spot on about John Stones, who was excellent once again for Manchester City against Liverpool.
Aside from his goal, the £47.5 million (Sky Sports) man did his best impression of Ruben Dias, as his defending inside the box was exemplary as he made several last-ditch blocks and interceptions to keep Jurgen Klopp’s side at bay.
Despite the pressure and lack of space that comes with Liverpool’s press, Stones was as calm as ever, as his passing was composed and accurate for the most part.
It seemed like only John Stones and perhaps even Rodri were in the swing of things and did not seem to lose their cool against the Merseyside-based club.
If there was one lesson that was learned from the heavyweight battle between both sides, it was that despite having faced a string of injuries this campaign, Stones’ performance was a reminder that he remains undeniably elite.
