Jarrod Bowen has suggested that Manchester City defender John Stones is on the same level as Virgil van Dijk.
With 157 Premier League appearances under his belt, prior to today’s match between West Ham United and Everton, the attacker has come up against a plethora of defenders.
Now though, the Englishman has highlighted two top-flight defenders that he has some significant praise for.
Bowen names Stones and Van Dijk for dream five-a-side team
Speaking in a recent short shared on the Premier League YouTube channel, Bowen had this to say when asked to pick a defensive option for his ideal five-a-side team.
He said: “I’ve got two that have come into my mind. I’ve got Van Dijk and John Stones, because John Stones in a little five-a-side when his blocking of shots is incredible, but then Van Dijk would be that solid defender, no one’s getting past him.”
Having signed the centre-half from Everton back in the 2016 summer transfer window for a fee of £47m, City have gone on to see Stones make 248 appearances for the club across all competitions.
With Van Dijk being considered as one of the best centre-backs of the Premier League era in some sectors, being thought about on a similar level to the Dutchman is a big compliment to Stones from Bowen, in our view.
The last time Bowen came face to face with Stones on the pitch came during City’s 3-0 win over the Hammers in the Premier League last season at the Etihad Stadium.
During that game, the 29-year-old made two interceptions, one clearance and won four of the eight duels he was involved in.
While he may not have had much to do on that night, it’s clear that Bowen thinks very highly of his England teammate and his ability on the pitch.
