Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has told The Independent that he thought John Stones was ‘outstanding’ against Manchester United.
City made the trip to Old Trafford seeking a passage to the final of the Carabao Cup – and they did so with a 2-0 win.
It was Stones who gave City the lead, turning home Phil Foden’s free kick from close range before Fernandinho drilled in the second from the edge of the box.
The win means City are into their fourth Carabao Cup final in a row, with Pep Guardiola looking to win the competition yet again.
City look to be hitting some great form at the moment, and part of their run has been the performances of defender Stones.
The 26-year-old has often blown hot and cold since his big move from Everton in 2016, failing to really live up to his potential.
Stones has been excellent in recent weeks though, becoming the first-choice partner to Ruben Dias whilst putting him back in contention for England.
Guardiola has now suggested that Stones was ‘outstanding’ again last night, believing that he needs to show the consistency that he has struggled with at times, whilst adding that Stones ‘struggled longer than expected’ at City.
“All credit for him (Stones). In a long career, you always have ups and downs,” said Guardiola. “Unfortunately, he struggled longer than we expected and he expected – but his comeback is absolutely down to him.”
“He made another outstanding performance. But the most important thing he has been able to do – something he has struggled with the past three or four years – is play four, five, six games in a row. This is so important,” he added.
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