The defender was often allowed to make mistakes during his time at Everton.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Norwich City striker Steven Naismith has claimed that everyone at Everton thought John Stones would become a midfielder.
The Scotland forward played alongside Stones during their time at Everton, during which the centre-half developed into one of the hottest prospects in Europe.
He has since moved on to Manchester City in a big money move, where he has continued his development under Pep Guardiola.
Manchester City’s John Stones looks dejected
He is expected to become of the best centre-backs in world football under the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich’s boss’ tutelage but Naismith says they actually envisioned him playing elsewhere.
“People were like “he is going to be a midfielder” because of how comfortable he was on the ball,” he told the Daily Mail.
“Nowadays and especially in that Manchester City team he is a bit of a midfielder who is good at tackling and reading the game.”
Manchester City’s John Stones with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola
Stones came under intense focus during his time at Goodison Park, with fans and pundits both criticising him for every mistake he would make.
Former Blues boss Roberto Martinez often refused to criticise the young defender, though, preferring that he learn and develop from his mistakes.
It was often a stance that infuriated the Goodison Park faithful but Naismith says it was a deliberate choice as they knew he has a real chance of becoming a top player.
“He is young and he has to be able to make mistakes,” he added.
“Especially down in England, they are not comfortable letting them make mistakes without blatantly pointing it out. Time will tell but he has a real chance.
“I think the Everton boys did (show more patience) because of what he gave back to the team in that period.”
Manchester City’s John Stones after sustaining an injury to his eye
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