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Stone is a rare player England is opportune to have, says Hoddle

By Editor
28 March 2016   |   12:56 am
John Stones offers England a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to change their style of play for the better, former England coach Glenn Hoddle says.
England’s midfielder Eric Dier (right) scores his side’s third goal during the friendly football match against Germany at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin at the weekend. England won 2-3. PHOTO:AFP

England’s midfielder Eric Dier (right) scores his side’s third goal during the friendly football match against Germany at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin at the weekend. England won 2-3. PHOTO:AFP

John Stones offers England a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to change their style of play for the better, former England coach Glenn Hoddle says.

The Everton centre-back has been criticised for some poor Premier League performances this season, but Hoddle sees him as essential to England’s Euro 2016 hopes.

Stones was overlooked by Roy Hodgson as England came from 2-0 down to beat Germany 3-2 in Berlin on Saturday and Hoddle feels the defender can improve England’s international prospects.

Writing in the Mail on Sunday, Hoddle said: “Stones represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to break that mould.

“If we want to do well at Euro 2016, then we need to have our best technical players on the ball, to give them the opportunity to create as many chances as they can, to put opponents on the back foot.

“And for that they need the ball, which means a passing link between the back four and midfield.”
Hoddle compared Stones to Germany centre-back Mats Hummels, as well as Spain’s Gerard Pique, citing the 21-year-old’s ability on the ball.

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