‘I was absolutely mesmerised he was the best player in the field’… Micah Richards and Gary Lineker hail ‘extraordinary’ 29-year-old Man City star-On Saturday night, Manchester City defeated Bournemouth by a score of 1-0, and both Gary Lineker and Micah Richards were quick to heap praise on City Star
Lineker and Richards left spellbound by one Manchester City star’s performance v Bournemouth.
Manchester City defeated Bournemouth 1-0 on Saturday night, and Gary Lineker and Micah Richards both praised John Stones following the game.
City continued their current winning streak by beating the Cherries at the Vitality Stadium.
Andoni Iraola’s side put up a stubborn showing, but City’s quality finally prevailed, with Phil Foden once again coming in clutch for City.
The England international was on hand to score after Erling Haaland’s original attempt was saved in the first half.
The lead has been reduced to one point, and the title battle is becoming very competitive.
City’s return of key players, namely John Stones, is expected to make a huge difference for Pep Guardiola.
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Gary Lineker and Micah Richards praise John Stones following Manchester City’s victory over Bournemouth
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Although the score was only 1-0, City put on a rather dominant display at the Vitality Stadium.
When Stones plays, City always has far greater game control, as the 29-year-old is so good on the ball and so astute in the positions he takes up, pushing out of defence and into midfield.
On Saturday, he spent more time in attacking midfield, and his performance on Match of the Day astounded Lineker and Richards.
Richards stated: “John Stones’ place is centre-back! But look at the positions he’s taking on! He isn’t only there as a decoy. He gets the ball and plays it, checks his shoulder, gives it up, and wants to leave. He didn’t receive a goal or an assist tonight, but his overall performance was outstanding.
“We’ve seen him step into holes in midfield, but his position was just mesmerising _ I love the way he draws people in.”
He continued: “I was absolutely mesmerised by the performance of John Stones, I thought it was extraordinary for a central defender.”
Stones are very significant for the city.
Stones’ performances are always enjoyable, and Saturday was a reminder of how much better City are when he plays.
He has had a terrible season due to injuries, and City fans have expressed concern over the absences of Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland, and Rodri. Guardiola stated after the game that Stones was still not fully fit.
However, Stones’ absence is equally crucial because no one else can provide that level of control.
Keeping him fit will be critical as City pursues another Triple.