John Stones is currently battling an illness that has confined him to his room, raising concerns about his availability for England’s Euro 2024 campaign. The Manchester City defender’s absence from training has been a worrying sign for the team’s preparations.
According to reports, Stones is now doubtful for England’s opening match against Serbia on Sunday. The 30-year-old has been a stalwart in the heart of England’s defense, earning 72 caps thus far. However, his most recent season with Manchester City was somewhat lackluster due to fitness and game time challenges.
John Stones is facing an uncertain future with England due to illness.
Stones’ lack of match fitness could prove problematic if he does manage to recover from his illness. He started only one Premier League game in the final quarter of the season, and his participation in England’s training sessions has been limited.
Among the five central defenders selected by England manager Southgate, Stones stands out as the most crucial player, especially after the injury-enforced omission of his longtime international partner, Harry Maguire. Despite Stones’ limited playing time at the club level, he remains indispensable to the national team.
England recently commenced their training in Germany, settling at the Weimarer Land Spa and Golf Resort in Blankenhain. While Luke Shaw and Stones initially joined the team, Stones’ illness has once again raised concerns about the team’s defensive lineup. Ezri Konsa or Lewis Dunk are likely to fill in for Stones if he is unable to recover in time for the Serbia match.
With Stones’ availability in question, England’s defense faces a significant challenge as they prepare to face Serbia in their Euro 2024 opener. The team will be eager to put any doubts to rest and put on a strong showing in their first match of the tournament.