‘Please don’t be injured’, ‘We need you and Dias back!’ – Man City fans react as John Stones withdraws from England squad

John Stones has left the England camp and will return to Manchester City as a precaution after picking up an injury before the friendly with Switzerland on Saturday.

The 27-year-old was due to start Saturday’s 2-1 friendly win against Switzerland, only to be replaced by Ben White after pulling up in the warm-up.

Boss Gareth Southgate said Stones “felt a bit of tightness” before that match and the Football Association has confirmed he will play no part against the Ivorians on Tuesday.

A statement read: “John Stones has left the England camp and returned to Manchester City.

“Having withdrawn from the starting line-up ahead of Saturday’s 2-1 victory against Switzerland at Wembley, the defender has continued to be assessed.

“After today’s session at Tottenham Hotspur’s training ground, it was decided that Stones would play no part against Cote d’Ivoire on Tuesday and has returned to his club as a precaution.”

The news was shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters, with encouraged by the reasoning behind the exit being described as a ‘precaution’.

“Good stuff John. Get yourself ready! We need you and Dias back! Important month coming up.”
Credit: @AtomiicMcfc

“Hope that means he’ll be ready for the CL at the very least.”
Credit: @LordBrackon

“Good. Fingers crossed he’s alright and ready for the run in.”
Credit: @andy

“This could turn out to be great or catastrophic depending on what happens next.”
Credit: @Raheem7ii

“Hope he’s back soon!.”
Credit: @CrustyFlacko

“I absolutely hate the international break! Please don’t be injured.”
Credit: @annamelissax

“I know Pep was SCREAMING down Southgates ear.”
Credit: @povsparker