Man City news: Pundit issues ‘big’ John Stones verdict after ‘statement’
Paul Robinson has claimed Raheem Sterling is right to heap praise on Man City defender John Stones for his ability on the ball.
However, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Spurs and England number one said “it is a very big statement” to say Stones, 28, is the best ball-playing centre-half in the world.
Speaking to GQ magazine, via City Xtra on Twitter (18 November), Sterling claimed Stones is “hands down the best ball-playing” central defender currently playing.
The two players started together for England on Monday (21 November) in a 6-2 win over Iran at the World Cup.
Stones was partnered by Man United skipper Harry Maguire in the Three Lions’ opener.
When asked by Football Insider if Sterling was right in his assessment of Stones’ ability, Robinson said: “It is a very big statement from Sterling when you consider the quality of other players in the world.
“It is hard not to say nice things about someone you are living at a hotel with for a month! When you are asked a question about someone you are living with in a confined space you are going to be complimentary.
“John Stones’ ability on the ball has never been in question. Everyone knows how good he is in that respect.
“It is his defensive capabilities which have been questioned. England are going to need him to be at his best defensively if they are to go far at the World Cup.”
In other news, a pundit has issued a ‘perfect’ Man City verdict as Erling Haaland plan is revealed.