Manchester City star credited with “big shoutout” by teammate for role played in Liverpool draw

John Stones was keen to issue a “big shoutout” to teammate Stefan Ortega for the role played in Manchester City’s 1-1 draw against Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.

The German goalkeeper was thrust into the Anfield limelight at the weekend following Ederson’s forced withdrawal from duties, after he was involved in a collision with Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez giving away a penalty in the process.

That clash left the Brazilian with a heavy blow to his leg, and despite attempting to continue, was replaced by Stefan Ortega with a full diagnosis on the problem expected following further checks with Manchester City’s medical staff this week.

Speaking to Manchester City’s official club website, Stones credited Stefan Ortega as being ‘incredible’ for his second-half performance following Ederson’s forced withdrawal through a muscular injury.

“Incredible keeper,” Stones said. “Not easy at all to come in at this stage and how he played, the saves that he pulled off, such intelligent saves. A big shoutout to Stefan for coming off the bench at such a difficult place and being ready, which everyone always is.”

Stones continued, “Even (Mateo) Kovacic and Jeremy (Doku) who came on gave everything.

“That’s the strength of our team. From back to front, whoever is on the bench, comes on and plays their part. That’s why we’ve been so successful over the years.”

Regardless of Ederson’s fitness ahead of the weekend’s fixture, Stefan Ortega is highly likely to assume duties as Manchester City’s goalkeeper for the visit of Newcastle United in the FA Cup quarter-final at the Etihad Stadium.

As such, that could allow the Brazilian to regain his fitness in time for the high-profile Premier League clash against Arsenal at the end of the month, with Mikel Arteta’s side currently top of the division and leading the race by one point.