John Stones compares England’s Euro 2024 miracle to Manchester City’s 2021-22 title win. England faced Slovakia and were about to lose until Jude Bellingham’s 95th-minute bicycle kick. This comeback can change the team’s perspective, showing them they can overcome obstacles, according to Stones.
Stones remembers Manchester City’s 2022 title comeback against Aston Villa, where they were 2-0 behind with 14 minutes left but won with three late goals. He sees resilience in England’s recent performance.
“I think it is a turning point emotionally to do it in such a high-pressure moment in the last few minutes,” he remarked. “When you have done these things you believe even more that you can do better when it gets tough.”
This psychological advantage affects opponents. Bellingham’s amazing goal surprised Slovakia, who assumed they were through. If Switzerland defends a tiny lead in the quarterfinals, Stones expects this will unsettle them.
“It wouldn’t be a bad thing to create that in the back of their minds,” said. “When we’ve done that in the last minute you believe you can do it again.”
Stones says England’s perseverance is a new strength despite uncertainties and on-pitch problems. He admits the Slovakia match was uncertain, but the team’s resilience has given them confidence.
I wish we hadn’t needed that to get to extra time. That’s football. We unlocked a terrific tool. We know it’s available if needed.”
Stones agrees that luck helped them survive, but the team must improve to succeed. England has lacked leadership, especially without Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson.
With his calm temperament and 76 caps, Stones knows the value of leadership. “I think it is only human you have those thoughts,” stated. “I learnt soon in my job to ignore that. I tried to use that throughout the game the other day to transform my thinking to a positive and feel we can win and score. It paid off.”
Positive energy was inspiring. England avoided folding against Slovakia. The story has been about a team that never quits. Stones knows that not every last-minute effort will work and that their adversary will improve. He knows they must improve or they will run out of time, despite all the talk about belief and turning points.
Stones’ leadership and conviction in the team’s potential are crucial as England prepares for difficulties. The crew has a story to hold onto in tough times, but the true test is ahead. England’s Euro 2024 success depends on their resilience and determination.
