Former defender Sylvain Distin has suggested that John Stones will not fulfil his potential while he is playing under Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.
Although Stones has made 129 appearances in all competitions since moving to the Etihad Stadium in 2016, the 25-year-old has not always been regarded as first choice.
Distin, who played with Stones at Everton, says that the England international has not developed 'a defensive grit' which he feels is required to improve his game.
Speaking to The Beautiful Game Podcast, the Frenchman said: "I'm not sure if he has got that defensive grit. He is an amazing player with the ball, really confident with the ball but that is possibly the modern centre-back. As a modern centre-back, yes he is amazing. Did he fulfil his potential? No.
"He still has a lot to learn and he has to be a lot more consistent. Can he fit in every team? I don't think so either. He is perfect for Guardiola. Will he be perfect for a team who have to be stronger defensively first and then have less possession? I am not sure he is there yet.
"Definitely he has all the attributes but I feel like something didn't click for him yet."
Stones currently has just over two years remaining on his contract.
Darren Plant
