England ace Kalvin Phillips has lauded Manchester City mainstay John Stones by putting him alongside some of the best defenders in the world, ahead of England’s World Cup clash against France.
Phillips believes Stones is one of the best in the business
Speaking to reporters (via Football Daily), Kalvin Phillips said, “I believe John [Stones] is one of the best centre-halves in the world right now.”
“I’m not just saying it because he’s at England, or because I’m good friends with him, or because he plays for Man City. I genuinely believe he’s one of the best centre-halves in the game at this moment in time.”
Phillips continued, “I think the way he plays at Man City, he’s brought into this England team and he seems so comfortable doing that.”
“He’s very composed on the ball, defends really well, and going forward, he’s one of the best centre-halves you can have distributing the ball.”
“For me, I believe John is one of the best centre-halves in the world right now. As of now, it [Stones/Maguire] has probably been the best centre-half partnership in the World Cup.”
Phillips is bang on the money about his City teammate
During his initial few years at the Etihad Stadium, one can admit that the £47.5 million (Sky Sports) was a frustrating figure amongst the fanbase.
A combination of injuries and inconsistency meant Stones seemed unable to fulfil his incredible potential.
However, England and Manchester City ace John Stones has managed to turn a corner since the 2020/2021 season, where he struck a brilliant partnership with Ruben Dias.
And ever since then, the general consensus amongst a majority of Sky Blues fans online remains that it is the ex-Everton starlet that is the most well-rounded defender at the club.
As the English aim to beat France in the World Cup quarter-final, the Man City man will be key to whichever way the result swings.
Phillips seems to be extremely appreciative of his City teammates, as he was confident about Walker’s ability to tame Mbappe as well.
