John Stones featured throughout the entirety of the 120 minutes for England in their dramatic 2-1 win against Slovakia.
The £47 million man would have been concerned after Ivan Schranz opened the scoring for the Slovakians during the Round of 16 at Euro 2024.
However, England showed their grit and determination to come back from the dead, courtesy of late goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane — keeping the Manchester City centre-back’s unfulfilled dream of conquering the international stage alive.
John Stones breaks incredible Ashley Cole record in an England shirt
So far, the 30-year-old’s persistent injury woes are yet to catch up with him, as the decorated defender has played during every minute of the Three Lions’ campaign in Germany.
Marc Guehi, who has emerged as one of England’s revelations has expressed his delight at being partnered by the former Everton colossus at the back — whose footsteps he admitted to following in.
Despite Francesco Calzona’s side being a constant threat on the counter-attack, the English defensive pairing managed to ensure their goal was not breached more than once — which played a massive role in their eventual victory.
Stones, alongside Jordan Pickford made his 23rd consecutive start for England in a major tournament against Slovakia — surpassing the record set by Ashley Cole of 22 during his time with the national team.
John Stones should already be viewed as an England hero
While Stones’ status amongst the great English centre-backs like Rio Ferdinand, Tony Adams and Sol Campbell can be debated, what remains indisputable is that he is a hero for the national team.
During Gareth Southgate’s reign, the six-time Premier League winner has been a mainstay at the back and his consistency in defence is up there with the very best of the best when they donned the national team’s colours.
Regardless of his lack of starts or worrying fitness record heading into the ongoing European Championship, the versatile defender has once again put in reliable showings at the back for the Three Lions.
Considering Ashley Cole was renowned for his consistency during his time for England, the fact that Stones has surpassed his record of successive starts at major tournaments is remarkably impressive.
Perhaps much like Cole, the treble-winner’s displays for his country will be remembered with fondness when he retires at international level.
