IMAGINE telling a Manchester City fan 12 months ago that they would have a fully-fit John Stones available for a run of must-win games to secure the Premier League title and Pep Guardiola would choose to leave him out.
When Stones conducted the midfield in the Champions League final 11 months ago, it would seem unthinkable that he wouldn't be the first name on the teamsheet whenever possible for the current campaign. But a mix of injuries and fitness setbacks have disrupted his season, restricting him to just 27 appearances this term.
He has started just one of the last seven games, failing to complete 90 minutes since the away trip to Real Madrid.
He has played just 76 minutes of a possible 660, with Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake becoming regulars in his place and Josko Gvardiol impressing at left-back.
Akanji has started 18 of the last 20 fixtures.
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