John Stones can prove his worth to City in Manchester derby
England international centre-back John Stones moved to Manchester City this summer for a fee of around £47.5million from Everton. He is regarded as one of the brightest young defenders in the European game.
However, to say he was disappointing last season for Everton would be an understatement. The youngster struggled in a Toffees backline that shipped an alarming amount of goals last season, under the affable, but hapless Roberto Martinez.
In fact, at one point Stones struggled to even get into the team at Everton. Despite all of last season’s struggles, the 22-year-old’s potential was still massive and Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola identified Stones as one of his prime transfer targets this summer.
The Citizens secured the signing of the youngster and he has impressed with City so far this season. Stones looks to have the ideal mentor in Guardiola, who encourages his defenders to come out from the back, something that is Stones forte.
One facet of his game that Stones has developed during his short time at the Etihad Stadium is to know when to move out of defence and when to just clear his lines. He took unnecessary chances while playing for Everton, but he seems to have cut that aspect out of his game slightly under Guardiola.
This weekend the youngster will start for City at Old Trafford against Manchester United in the derby. He will have the challenge of attempting to keep the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Wayne Rooney off the scoresheet.
This is a massive task, as both the high-profile stars have started the campaign in decent style. Stones is a decent defender, but could develop into a world-class star under Guardiola.
On Saturday Stones will have the chance to prove his worth in a high-profile clash and from his recent displays for City the game will not faze him at all.
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