Pep Guardiola has praised Manchester City defender John Stones, and in particular his “balls”.
Stones has endured plenty of criticism for a difficult debut campaign at City since joining from Everton for £47.5million in the summer.
The England international was dropped from the starting line-up at one stage last year, and has been scrutinised for a number of high-profile mistakes.
He produced perhaps his best performance under Guardiola on Sunday however in the 1-1 draw __with Liverpool. One of 16 Conclusions were dedicated to him.
Guardiola led the chorus of praise however, hailing the 22-year-old’s “balls”.
“John Stones has more personality than anyone in this room – more balls than everyone here,” said the Spaniard. “I am delighted to have him.
“With all his huge amount of mistakes, I love him.
“He is under pressure. The people criticise him. They said he wouldn’t play again.
“It is not easy to play central defence for this manager but I admire my central defenders.”