England international John Stones is receiving praise from the footballing world and could potentially play for one of Europe’s high-profile clubs; Real Madrid included.
The 21-year-old has been labelled as one of the UK’s rising stars and combined with compatriot, Chris Smalling, the pair will be a formidable force come Euro 2016.
Stones is now the prized asset of Premier League side Everton whom declined bids from both Chelsea and Manchester United this summer.
His talent is as such that his style, technique and skills are expected to progress rapidly in the upcoming seasons.
Former blues scout, Tony Henry, discovered Stones at Barnsley and convinced former coach David Moyes to sign him.
He believes the Englishman was correct in his choice of remaining at Everton, as he asserts a move would have been detrimental to Stones’ progress.
“Playing at Everton, alongside Phil Jagielka, Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman will bring him on even more,” he told the Liverpool Echo.
“But that he is now a regular in the England squad speaks volumes of the kid. I’m delighted for the kid,” he said.
Henry is adamant another big move is likely for the rising star if his current form continues.
“John will still make mistakes but in two years I think he could be anywhere.”
“He could be at Real Madrid,” he said.
So with that in mind, let’s take a look at six reasons why Stones could be an asset at Real.
1. He is a composed defender with excellent timing in his tackles and positioning off the ball.
No doubt that he could lend a hand with anchoring the Real defence alongside fellow central defender Sergio Ramos. Perhaps creating a more explosive partnership with the Spaniard as opposed to national teammate, Smalling.
2. Comfortable and can easily turn defence into offence.
Coach Rafael Benitez is all for strengthening and uniting the side yet definitely has an attacking mindset. The Spaniard is always keen to expose and exploit his opposition’s weaknesses and certainly building waves of attack from the back line would aid his play style.
3. Isn’t afraid to make important defensive tackles in key moments.
The Los Galactico’s defence has received much criticism for its performance or lack thereof during the concluding stages of the 2014/15 La Liga season with the needless concession of free-kicks and cards due to an absence of defensive discipline. Stones’ calm nature will definitely benefit and perhaps cancel out the brash temperament of players such as Pepe.
4. Awarded Everton’s young player of the 2014/15 season.
While this is not considered an attribute as such, a future move to the Bernebau will only help him grow as a player and not to mention increase his football marketability.
5. Quick and precise.
No doubt these qualities will help him ease into Real and Spain’s fast-paced style of play. Thus consequently improving his national team performances. Double the benefits.
6. Willing to accept all forms of advice.
Stones is still only 21-years-old yet has already suffered from an ankle injury in 2014, forcing him to have three months on the sidelines. Despite the early setback, the Englishman worked his way back to full fitness and has listened to all forms of guidance. No doubt this aspect will ensure he improves greatly if he joins Real.
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