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Manchester City defender John Stones spoke about his current situation in a team that has seen some significant changes
John Stones is feeling back to his old self as he looks to put 'laughable' speculation about his future behind him.
The Manchester City defender endured a torrid year with injuries last season, missing over 30 games as a result of his problems with only Rodri and Oscar Bobb more absent. A number of attempted comebacks only resulted in more time on the sidelines.
With the Blues signing two centre-backs in the January window to galvanise and future-proof their squad as part of a rebuild, there have been questions over Stones as part of a wider look at every player. Pep Guardiola has said that one of the key qualities he needs in anyone in his squad is the ability to stay fit.
Stones has a lot to answer on that front, but rejected the idea earlier in the summer that he could go elsewhere in the transfer window. Speaking to reporters at the City Football Academy on Tuesday, he reiterated that he had not had any thoughts about leaving.
“It’s laughable to me. I understand why people do it but there’s nothing to comment on," he said.
“I love it here, nothing’s happening. I’m here to fight and play and hopefully win some trophies.
“[I’m] back to full fitness, feel great – I have been for a few months now – so I’m feeling good!”
City have plenty of new faces in their squad, with 10 new arrivals this year. Vitor Reis is finalising a loan move to Girona and Claudio Echeverri should also leave on loan but otherwise there is plenty of fresh competition for places.
Despite the feeling of a new era at the club, Stones believes it will look a lot like they have done for the whole of Guardiola's decade at the Etihad.
"I think it’s too hard to drastically change your identity and what we’ve kind of cemented over the years,” he said.
“But obviously there’s fine tweaks and fresh faces – Pep Lijnders whose come in, Kolo [Toure] has been incredible, brought a new energy to us, a new aspect, and a new angle of looking at things.
“And I think it’s all positive. It’s going to help us in the long run, they’re enthusiastic for it, as we are as players. And it will be soon here, the season’s round the corner.”
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