Last season, Manchester City defender Stones played in only 11 Premier League games due to injury, and his hamstring injury even made him announce the end of the season in February. In an interview with the BBC, the player revealed that he was only 31 years old and even considered retiring due to injuries last season.
"Last season was very difficult for me, and I even considered retirement. I didn't want to do this either. I have tried my best to maintain my professional attitude and do everything I can, but I still suffer from setbacks and can't find a solution. That period was really tormented."
Stones has been suffering from injuries since transferring to Manchester City from Everton in 2016, and attendance has always been a problem: "Sometimes you really don't understand why this happens, especially if you put in a tremendous effort, performance When you are very professional, you are still injured and unable to play. This confusion will make you even more distressed. When the injury strikes, it is easy to say that you have not done these things. But when you really do what you should do, you have tried your best, but you are still injured, and the psychological pressure is even greater. I hope I will not return to that state. "
This season, Stones, who has recovered from health, has only started five times. Now Manchester City coach Guardiola seems to be more inclined to use Ruben Dias and Guvadior as the central defender partner. In response, Stones said: "I was excited at that time and my thoughts were very confused, but I didn't think I would really retire. A few years ago when Manchester City wanted me to face a new challenge, I said 'I will fight to the end'. This is a belief I have since childhood. Why should I give up now? I still have that fighting spirit and a winner mentality in my heart, and I don't want to stop there."
In this issue of the English national team roster, Stones was selected again. The player admitted: "My love for England is indescribable. I love this land deeply and love playing for England. It is my job to represent the national team to compete in the competition. In the most glorious moment of my career, when Tuchel agreed without hesitation when I was willing to train with the team. "
"I want to be there, with my teammates in England. Tuchel understands me, because I have been in trouble alone, and he sees it in my eyes, knowing how lonely I am when I am in the dilemma. At the same time, I also hope to be the spiritual strength of young players, the object of their conspiracy, and the outlet for their emotions to vent. I think when they see a senior in poor health willing to return to the team, they can feel the spirit of the England national team over the years. "