Shay Given has hailed John Stones for his performance in the Champions League final and his form throughout this season at Manchester City.
The Englishman recently helped his side win their first Champions League trophy last weekend by beating Inter Milan 1-0 in Istanbul, which also saw the Citizens secure the treble having won the Premier League and the FA Cup.
Having been linked with the exit door at the Etihad Stadium back in 2020, the 29-year-old’s recent form has been the subject of conversation, with one former City player heaping all sorts of praise on the defender.
Given raves over Stones
Speaking on a recent episode of BBC Radio 5 Live’s Football Daily podcast, Given said this about Stones and his latest season with City.
He said: “He’s been phenomenal. He ran himself into the ground and he played about three or four different positions, but it felt like he covered every blade of grass as well in Istanbul he was all over the place.
“John Stones has been a revelation this season, he’s been brilliant and one of the key players.
“He’s really turned his career around at City because a couple of years ago he looked on his way out the door as well, so he’s done absolutely amazing.”
With 82 minutes under his belt in the final, Stones, whilst playing in his fairly new midfield role, completed all seven of the dribbles he attempted.
Given wasn’t the only one that was impressed by the England international’s display in Turkey, as Sky Sports said this about him in their player ratings article.
They said: “Again looked supremely comfortable in his new midfield role, happily taking the ball under pressure, recycling possession and sometimes slaloming away from defenders deep in Inter’s half. Earned a standing ovation from the City fans when he was substituted.”
With all of that in mind, it’s easy to see why Given has been sharing his praise for the versatile City player and the way in which he has gone from being potentially out the door to one of the most important figures in the team.
