Gary Lineker has highlighted how important John Stones has become for Manchester City.
The Englishman has, unfortunately, spent most of this current season out injured.
Despite that, the defender has found himself being singled out for how much of a significant figure he is for the Citizens.
Lineker hails Stones’ importance
Speaking in a recent edition of The Rest Is Football, Lineker had this to say about Stones and how important his presence has become for the current City team.
He said: “Stones has become a very important player for Man City.”
City signed the 29-year-old back in the 2016 summer transfer window from fellow Premier League side Everton in a deal worth £47m.
Since then, the England international has gone on to make 235 appearances for the club across all competitions, chipping in with 15 goals and five assists along the way, lifting numerous trophies in the process.
Back in 2020, Stones’ future at the club was in doubt due to his inability to tie down a regular place in Pep Guardiola’s side.
Since then, the Englishman has gone on to do just that and earn himself a new and improved contract which he signed back in August 2021.
The second half of last season saw Stones adopt a new role in Guardiola’s side that saw him venture into midfield, which ended up earning the 29-year-old a lot of praise from his manager.
Now that Lineker has shared his thoughts on how important the centre-back has become for his side, this should make it clear for others outside of the club how impressive Stones has been for City in recent years.
Even though the Citizens have not done too badly in terms of their results in the Premier League and the Champions League so far this season, having Stones back fit will undoubtedly be a big positive for City and give Guardiola an extra option for his defence and midfield.
