Thomas Tuchel has expressed concerns over John Stones’ fitness, stating that the defender needs to maintain his fitness to keep his World Cup hopes alive. Stones’ recent injury has ruled him out of England’s World Cup qualifiers, and Tuchel emphasizes the importance of Stones staying fit to remain a key part of England’s plans for the tournament.
Thomas Tuchel has cast a shadow over John Stones' aspirations of representing England at the World Cup, following yet another injury setback that has sidelined the defender from the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia. The central defender's persistent fitness woes have become a growing concern, placing his participation in future international tournaments in jeopardy.
Stones, a linchpin in the England squad, has been plagued by a series of fitness issues over the past year and a half, limiting his appearances on the international stage. His last outing for England was in October, marking a significant absence that has frustrated both the player and the national team's coaching staff. Tuchel had high hopes of including Stones in the starting lineup for the match against Andorra at Villa Park, but the defender's injury has thrown those plans into disarray.
Despite Stones' impressive track record in recent tournaments, his inability to maintain consistent fitness has raised concerns about his long-term prospects with the national team. He is yet to play under Tuchel, who has made it clear that the 31-year-old's future with England hinges on his ability to stay fit in the lead-up to next summer's World Cup. The defender's recent injury has not only ruled him out of the upcoming qualifiers but has also cast doubt on his availability for Manchester City, adding to the player's woes.
"I'm a big fan of John, his personality and his quality," England's head coach told BBC 5Live. "He could be an important figure, of course, but he needs to be available. He wants to be available and he’s a top professional, so he is the most upset in all this because he does really everything to be fit and struggles then with these minor issues from time to time that cost him game time."
Tuchel's words underscore the delicate situation surrounding Stones' World Cup hopes. While the coach acknowledges the defender's talent and leadership qualities, he emphasizes the importance of availability. Stones' repeated struggles with injuries have become a recurring theme, disrupting his rhythm and preventing him from reaching his full potential.
"I hope he keeps his spirit up because he will stay important for us. I saw in these three days what he what he means to the group as a personality and as a social glue within the group. What he brings to the pitch is outstanding quality as a central defender and possibly as a pivotal No 6, but we have to adapt to it. He’s now not available anymore. We will find solutions for it."
Tuchel had envisioned a prominent role for Stones during this international camp, following the defender's appearances in City's first three league games of the season. In addition to starting him in central defense against Andorra, the England head coach had considered deploying him in a defensive midfield role for the away game against Serbia. This versatility would have added another dimension to England's squad, but Stones' injury has forced Tuchel to reconsider his plans.
"I think he would have maybe started as a central defender in this match, but he was in contention for playing No 6 for us as well," Tuchel told Talksport. "It was in our thoughts to maybe use him as a six against Serbia. But listen, this is how it is. He’s very upset. He’s very upset because he does everything on a daily basis to be fit."
Tuchel's disappointment is palpable, as he recognizes the potential that Stones possesses and the impact he could have on the England squad. However, the coach remains pragmatic, acknowledging the need to adapt and find alternative solutions in the face of Stones' unavailability. The team's focus now shifts to the remaining players, who must step up and fill the void left by Stones' absence.
"Now he has again minor issues. It will cost him two caps for the national team. It will maybe cost him some minutes for Manchester City. He was a big part of camp so far. But, yeah, it is what it is. We have to adapt. We have to find solutions. We will have a strong team tomorrow, and we will come up with solutions without John."
With Stones sidelined, England's other options at centre-back include Ezri Konsa, Dan Burn, Marc Guéhi and Jarell Quansah. These players will have the opportunity to prove their worth and stake their claim for a place in the squad, as England navigates the upcoming World Cup qualifiers without one of their key players.