First photos of John Stones as Manchester City defender returns to training following ankle injury

Manchester City have released their first range of photos confirming John Stones’ return to first-team training this week following an ankle injury.

The 28-year-old versatile defender – who operates largely in defensive midfield for Pep Guardiola’s side – has endured a difficult campaign due to injury problems ranging from muscular issues to impact setbacks.

Stones’ latest issue was sustained during a controversial incident at Goodison Park, after a delayed offside flag saw the defender collide with Everton forward Beto leaving him with an impact injury to his ankle.

John Stones has since been ruled out of action for Manchester City since that date, but has made significant strides towards a full recovery this week having returned to on-field action with the first-team squad in the middle-east at a crucial phase of the season.

Now, following first confirmation of the England international’s return to training over the weekend, Manchester City have released a range of images showcasing John Stones in warm weather training over in Abu Dhabi.

Manchester City will be hoping that John Stones can make enough ground in his recovery process to play some role in their FA Cup fourth round tie against Tottenham at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this Friday night.

It is one of two fitness boosts for Pep Guardiola and his backroom staff this week, after Erling Haaland also made his long-awaited return to first-team training following a bone stress problem and subsequent setbacks in his recovery process.

The comebacks of the Manchester City duo means that only Manuel Akanji remains ruled out for the club, with the Swiss defender currently having no timeframe on a return although an update could come this Thursday during Pep Guardiola’s press conference.