Manchester City defender John Stones was substituted early in England's friendly match against Belgium due to a suspected adductor injury. The injury adds to a growing list of concerns for both England manager Gareth Southgate and City boss Pep Guardiola, who are counting on Stones for the upcoming European Championship and City's final month of the season. Stones' injury comes just days after his teammate Kyle Walker also suffered a hamstring injury, leaving both players uncertain for upcoming matches.
England's Stones Suffers Suspected Adductor Injury, Raising Concerns for Southgate and Guardiola
England's defense has been dealt a blow with the news that Manchester City defender John Stones has suffered a suspected adductor injury during the Three Lions' friendly match against Belgium.
Stones was forced off the field in the early stages of the game at Wembley Stadium, leaving England manager Gareth Southgate and City boss Pep Guardiola with concerns ahead of the upcoming European Championship and the final month of the Premier League season.
The news comes just days after Guardiola revealed that Stones' teammate Kyle Walker had suffered a hamstring injury, leaving both players uncertain for upcoming matches.
Background
Stones has been a mainstay in the England team for the past few years, playing a key role in the Three Lions' run to the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
He has also been a key player for City, helping them win three Premier League titles, four League Cups, and an FA Cup.
Southgate and Guardiola are counting on Stones to play a major role for their respective teams in the coming months. England are due to play in the UEFA European Championship this summer, while City are still in contention for the Premier League title and the Champions League.
FAQs and Answers
1. What is the extent of Stones' injury?
The extent of Stones' injury is not yet known, but it is suspected that he has suffered an adductor injury. This type of injury can take several weeks to heal, depending on the severity.
2. Will Stones miss the European Championship?
It is too early to say whether Stones will miss the European Championship. The severity of his injury will determine how long he is out for.
3. What are the implications for England?
Stones' injury is a major blow to England's defense. He is one of the most experienced players in the squad and has been a key part of Southgate's plans for the European Championship.
4. What are the implications for Manchester City?
Stones' injury is also a blow to Manchester City. He has been a key player for the club this season and is expected to play a major role in their run-in to the Premier League and Champions League.
5. Who will replace Stones in the England team?
If Stones is ruled out of the European Championship, Southgate will have a number of options to replace him. Harry Maguire, Joe Gomez, and Fikayo Tomori are among the players who could come into the team.
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