RUBEN DIAS shared a long embrace with John Stones during January’s Manchester derby because he had been poked in the EYE by his pal.
The defenders have become a major part of Manchester City’s title bid with the Englishman detailing a comedy moment amid wild celebrations.
John Stones has revealed the comedy behind a touching moment with Ruben DiasCredit: AFP
The defensive pair have become the rock of Manchester City’s title chargeCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Stones scored in his side’s 2-0 win over Manchester United in the Carabao Cup semi-finals.
One noticeable moment at full-time was a long embrace between the centre-backs, which many took to be a sign of their burgeoning partnership.
And while that was certainly the case, Stones told the Telegraph of the other reason for that particular hug.
The 26-year-old admitted: “We’d actually gone to high five and my hand slipped and I ended up poking him in the eye.
“We were buzzing having won, having kept another clean sheet and how we’d played.
“But I’m there half saying, ‘Sorry, I’ve just poked you in the eye’ and half celebrating at the same time.
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The relief and emotion when the final whistle goes — I think we let it out in that embrace.
John Stones
“It was a nice moment I will always remember. We’ve actually got some pictures around the training ground now of the whole squad after that game celebrating on the pitch together.
“It’s a moment that really showed the character and team spirit. The relief and emotion when the final whistle goes — I think we let it out in that embrace.”
City have the chance to extend their 14-point advantage at the top of the Premier League when welcoming second-placed United to the Etihad on Sunday.
The match is yet another opportunity for Stones to build on his stunning form, having returned to the line-up in late November.
A recall to the England setup and a ticket to Euro 2020 seems inevitable and he described how such a moment would be a huge boost.
The player added: “I think being out of the squads, watching the games on TV, all the things that come with not playing, was really difficult.
“It would mean everything.”
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John Stones looks ahead to Man City winning silverware this season
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
