John Stones News: Starting in pre-season

Stones started and played the first 45 minutes of Saturday's friendly against Palermo.

Stones got the start with a strong first XI, playing the first half before wholesale changes. the defender ended the season with a thigh issue, missing the final three months of the campaign. Injuries have hampered Stones heavily in recent years, but whenever he can get fit he earns consistent minutes in the defense and holding midfield. If Stones opens the season fully fit he should compete for minutes in either role, especially with City competing in four competitions.