Arsenal star gives Man City defender John Stones new nickname made famous by UFC legend
Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has shared John Stones’ nickname within the England camp.
The Manchester City defender has joined up with England ahead of the Three Lions’ friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. It is the final international break before Gareth Southgate selects his initial squad for Euro 2024 in the summer.
Stones has been a mainstay of England’s defence for the last three international tournaments. The 29-year-old has also developed his role within the City side over recent seasons and was a vital player in Pep Guardiola’s team as the club won a historic treble.
READ MORE: Erling Haaland injury latest as Man City striker delivers positive update amid training scare
READ MORE: Man City have found the partnership that could win them the treble - but it's not perfect
Stones is joined in the latest England squad by Kyle Walker and Phil Foden, as well as former City teammate Cole Palmer. However, it was Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale who hinted at Stones’ nickname in a video of the squad arriving for England duty.
When greeting the City defender, Ramsdale called him “John Bones” as he reached for a handshake. The moniker is likely to stem from the nickname of UFC heavyweight champion Jon ‘Bones’ Jones, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest-ever MMA fighters.
Stones will be aiming to add to his 69 England caps without picking up an injury as City compete for an unprecedented double treble. It will be the final time that the centre-back will be on international duty until summer, with Southgate expected to name his initial training squad shortly after the end of the season.
The Three Lions will then play two warm-up friendlies and the deadline for England’s final 23-man group to be
Read on manchestereveningnews.co.uk
