Stones disappointed by Sterling treatment
John Stones says that the treatment of Manchester City team-mate Raheem Sterling at the World Cup was unfair and that the forward deserves more praise for his performances at the tournament.
Sterling plundered 23 goals in all competitions last season, but failed to find the net in Russia, having last scored an international goal way back in November 2015.
That record led to criticism from some parts, something that Stones feels was unfair.
"Raz was unbelievable in the World Cup," Stones insisted.
"I know he got a lot of negativity towards him but what he brought to the team, he terrorised defences and it got overshadowed.
"On a personal level I was upset for Raheem because what he brings to his team, as we saw with his goal against Newcastle, is immense."
Sterling remains a key part of England boss Gareth Southgate's thinking and Stones insists that critics need to look beyond the goals and assists statistics to see his real contributoin.
"It's not just about goals, he creates chances, takes on his full-back - he does everything right and more and I hope if we do play for England that one goes in and that is that, and we can put it to bed," said Stones.
"If that happens, he can go on to show the world how good he is.
"He has such a great mentality, to keep coming out every week and doing what he does, and brush it all aside."