Everton’s defensive woes might just be behind them and it would be a truly odd time for John Stones to jump ship. The England international has suffered persistent criticism for his regular lapses in defensive concentration and has, despite the poor form of Gary Cahill, not been able to earn the role of first choice centre-back for England.
The arrival of Ronald Koeman, however, should clearly change things for Stones. A career that has been glistened with transfer rumours and the occasional strong display would be beautifully benefited by the management of the Dutchman. Previously, it made perfect sense to jump ship whilst the kamikaze Roberto Martinez was at the helm. Martinez was never going to be the man to develop a young defender into the great player he could become, but Koeman might just be that guy.
Stones needs some stability and a manager who will place faith in him, that is without question. Martinez, largely, was supportive of the young defender, but his own insecurity as manager did not help the development of the starlet. A move to Chelsea, Manchester City or Manchester United will be tantalising for the former Barnsley man, although it really wouldn’t be the most sensible decision for his own development and career goals.
Making the ‘big’ move too soon has haunted many young players for years.
Koeman built one of the most resolute defences in Europe at Southampton and that will be one of his first tasks when he arrives at Everton. Virgil van Dijk, who just signed a mammoth contract with the Saints, is a ball-playing centre-half, just like Stones, and he truly thrived under Koeman. The Dutch boss is flexible tactically and, if he were to use his 3-5-2 at Everton, he could manipulate the system to one that would truly bring the best out of Stones.
The money of a bigger club will always tempt players, their careers are short, after all, but Stones must avoid that temptation. Koeman is the man to take Everton to the next level and there is almost a guarantee that the new Toffees boss will build around Stones. A Ramiro Funes Mori and Stones partnership seems almost inevitable if Koeman can manage to suppress the slightly ‘headless-chicken’ nature of Stones’ potential partner.
A young player with immense talent, Stones’ summer transfer window and 2016/17 season will be absolutely huge for him. If he chooses to leave Goodison it will be a challenge to break through into the first XI, but, if he stays on Merseyside, it will be a case of proving that he can learn from his defensive mistakes. Decision making is eye even for the most technically adept players and Stones should stay at Everton to finally learn his trade.
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