Predicting England's World Cup Squad

16. John Stones

England Under 21 manager Gareth Southgate during the squad announcement at St George's Park, Burton upon Trent.
David Davies/PA Archive/Press Association Images

Despite the fact that Stones has fallen out of favour at Manchester City over the latter half of the season, the centre back would still be a solid choice for Gareth Southgate, offering something different to England than any other player. Though his determination to bring the ball out at his feet has gotten him into trouble on more than one occasion, his confidence and composure is always refreshing to see.

Stones has, for several years, been thought of as the future of England's defence. He was selected for the Euro 2016 campaign at just 22 years old, though never actually played, with the pairing of Gary Cahill and Chris Smalling being preferred.

Under Southgate however, with two more years of Premier League experience under his belt, Stones' England fortune seems to have turned around. The former Barnsley man was the only player to start all four of England's last friendlies, so it would would be a major shock if he was left out of the 23 man squad.

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