Manchester: England defender John Stones took “a good look” at his erratic performance in his first season at Manchester City before developing into the club’s defensive mainstay, the 23-year-old said ahead of Friday’s friendly against Germany.
Stones, who joined City before the start of last season, was initially criticised for his erratic performances but has since become a key cog in Pep Guardiola’s side.
The former Everton man has started in 10 of City’s 11 league games this campaign as Guardiola’s side remain unbeaten and with an eight-point lead at the top of the standings.
“I feel like I’ve been developing since I first went to City,” Stones said. “I don’t think there’s been a point where I’ve not been learning or developing.
“That doesn’t mean it’s always been good and learning in a positive way.
“I’ve had to take dips and take a good look at myself and I feel every day that I go out on the training pitch is a day to get something out of it.” England host five-time World Cup winners Brazil on Tuesday before the league returns with City travelling to Leicester City on Nov. 18.
Meanwhile, Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard says it “would be a dream” to play under French great and current Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane in the future.
Hazard has been instrumental to Chelsea’s success since joining the club in 2012, winning two Premier League titles, a League Cup and the Europa League, and has scored three goals and provided four assists in 13 appearances this season.
Media reports have repeatedly linked the Belgian with the Spanish champions and the 26-year-old did not rule out a future move to Real Madrid.
“Everyone knows the respect I have for Zidane as a player, but also as a manager. He was my idol,” Hazard told Belgian TV channel RTL. “I do not know what will happen in the future. However, for sure, to play under Zidane would be a dream.
“I am enjoying life at Chelsea. I still have a lot of things to achieve with them. I am focused on playing for Chelsea.” Hazard said that he would also enjoy a reunion with former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, who is currently at league rivals Manchester United.
“Of course (I would enjoy working with Mourinho again). I like facing him also as an opponent. If we were to work together in the future it would be with pleasure,” Hazard said.
Hazard has been called up for Belgium’s friendlies against Mexico and Japan and will reunite with Chelsea, who are fourth in the league, ahead of their trip to West Bromwich Albion on Nov. 18.
