'He didn't even know!' - Arsenal star pokes fun at John Stones over Man City title bid admission
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice said Manchester City centre-back John Stones had forgotten all about the upcoming clash between the two clubs after they linked-up on international duty last week.
Rice and Stones are currently away with England and are both poised to start tonight's friendly against Belgium. Rice will captain the side to mark his 50th appearance while Stones could start in defence. Though they will be team-mates tonight, they will be going toe-to-toe at the Etihad Stadium this weekend when City and Arsenal go head-to-head on Sunday in a crunch title encounter.
As things stand, Arsenal are currently top of the pile, just one point ahead of third-placed City. The outcome of the contest could go a long way towards determining the outcome of what has so far been a thrilling title race.
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Despite the magnitude of the upcoming contest, Rice has joked that Stones had forgotten about the upcoming challenge, offering an insight into his laid back character.
"The first day I came I saw John Stones," said Rice. "I said, 'Big game next' and John said, 'Who are you playing?' I said, 'We've got you lot!' He said, 'Oh yeah!'
"He didn't even know they were playing us next! When he's away from football he likes to be with his family and switch off and I get that, he likes to take one game at a time."
Rice could also go up against other England teammates on Sunday including Kyle Walker, who was forced off against Brazil with a hamstring issue. Fortunately, it is not thought to be serious meaning he is in contention for the clash with Arsenal.
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