Joe Hart has claimed that one Manchester City player was not at his best for England in their 1-0 victory against Serbia.
England, as a whole perhaps did not hit the heights they expected to on Sunday night.
Serbia were expected to present a tough test for Gareth Southgate’s side and they most certainly did — but even so, the Three Lions’ lack of control and chance creation emerged as worries.
Kyle Walker, John Stones and Phil Foden, who all started the game would understandably be content that ultimately, England won on the night.
Joe Hart makes fresh John Stones observation after England defeat Serbia
One Manchester City player who was heavily criticised for his display was Foden — with Cesc Fabregas stating the 24-year-old should take a leaf out of Jude Bellingham’s book and demand the ball more.
Jamie O’Hara went as far as to state that the six-time Premier League winner is “ineffective” every time he plays for his national team.
However, the player Joe Hart focused on was after England’s win against Serbia was Stones on BBC Sport.
Hart said: “John Stones is at the top end of world football when it comes to centre-backs but he was a little rusty tonight.”
John Stones had some rusty moments in the game
Joe Hart does raise a valid point about Stones, as some of his clearances almost put England in danger against Serbia.
During the initial spell of the contest, the £50 million man’s header almost put the opposition through on goal.
Similarly, when trying to clear a dangerous cross out of danger, Stones’ scuffed attempt meant England conceded a needless corner.
But simultaneously, the 30-year-old was a rock at the back — with Sofascore stating that he made four clearances, won four out of his four aerial duels and was not even dribbled past once.
For a centre-back famed to be excellent in possession, Stones had dicey moments on the ball but the reason behind such rustiness might come down due to a lack of match fitness.