By Martin Graham
England and Manchester City defender John Stones has admitted that injuries last season left him questioning his future in football.
The 31-year-old center-back managed only 11 Premier League appearances in the previous campaign, as foot and hamstring problems disrupted his progress. His season ended prematurely in February because of a hamstring issue.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Stones said the constant physical problems took a heavy toll. “Last season was tough for me, to the point where I thought about stopping,” he explained. “I had had enough of being so professional and trying to do everything right in my power, only to then keep breaking down and not having the answers. It was a very difficult place to be in.”
Since joining City from Everton in 2016, Stones has never featured more than 27 times in a single league season. He described the frustration of suffering injuries despite meticulous preparation. “When you put in so much effort, or you are ultra professional, and something still happens, it’s mentally challenging,” he added. “Hopefully I don’t go back to that place.”
Determination to keep fighting
Stones has featured in five matches so far this season, but Pep Guardiola has preferred Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol as his central defensive pairing. Despite moments of doubt, the experienced defender insists his competitive drive remains strong.
“My emotions were high. I wasn’t thinking straight. I don’t think deep down I would have ever done it [retired],” he said. “I said years ago when City wanted me to have a new challenge, I said ‘I am going to fight.’ That’s all I have known since I was a kid – why should I stop that now?”
He has represented England at five major tournaments but has not played for the national team since October 2024. Thomas Tuchel, who became England manager in January, has included him in the squad for the friendly against Wales at Wembley on Thursday and the World Cup qualifier in Latvia on 14 October. A win in Riga would guarantee England’s qualification for next summer’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
England’s role remains significant
Tuchel made clear recently that no player is assured of a place in his selections, with Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, and Jack Grealish omitted. Yet Stones’ importance was underlined when, while sidelined in June, he was invited to a training camp in Spain to support the group.
“My love for England, I think it’s difficult to put into words. I love England so much – I love playing for England,” Stones said. He explained that he accepted Tuchel’s invitation without hesitation: “He knew that I was lonely training by myself, being in a difficult spot. [But also] to be a presence, to be someone to speak to, a vent for the younger guys. To be someone who is not fit and still willing to come and be part of a team shows a great deal to the lads.”
The defender described the experience as “a special moment” that allowed him to support teammates and offer guidance during his recovery period.
Gordon eager to improve for England
Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon has caught the eye on the left flank under Tuchel but feels he can still offer more. “I think I have probably been at 50% in an England shirt,” he admitted. “I am nowhere near where I can get to. But I am feeling more comfortable every time I play.”
Gordon said he aims to build on his performance against Serbia, adding that he is not surprised Tuchel stuck with the same group from September. He described that camp as “the best I have been a part of in terms of the vibe of the camp” because “everything clicked on and off the pitch.”
