Roberto Martinez sure John Stones will bounce back from recent errors
Wednesday 27 January 2016 12:22, UK
Everton boss Roberto Martinez expects John Stones to rise above recent criticism and develop into one of England's greatest players.
Stones, who was linked with a big-money move to Chelsea last summer, has struggled at times in recent matches and was responsible for Swansea's first goal in their 2-1 Premier League win at Goodison Park on Sunday when his errant back-pass led to Tim Howard giving away a penalty.
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But Martinez says the 21-year-old is still learning the game and his faith in Stones will not be affected by a below-par performance or two.
"John is 21 and has played 68 games in the Premier League. I would never judge a player until he plays 100 starts in any league," Martinez said.
"John is the first one to know when he plays well and plays badly. You have to learn from those situations.
"Some of his performances this season have been magnificent. Is he the finished article? Clearly not, because he is 21 and has played only 68 games.
"Whatever the judgement and criticism from outside we accept it, but I think John Stones is in the perfect environment to fulfil his potential and become one of the greatest players England has ever seen."
Stones will be reunited with England team-mate Phil Jagielka when Everton travel to take on Manchester City in their Capital One Cup semi-final second leg on Wednesday, and Martinez feels that will help the young defender as well as the rest of the team.
"It would be daft to say that you don't miss a player like Phil Jagielka," he added.
"His influence is always there. Phil is a real influence in the dressing room and it is important he is fully refreshed."
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