Stones sends clear message to Pep Guardiola after brutal Man City injury blow

John Stones has told Pep Guardiola he is ready to step into the Manchester City void left in the wake of Rodri's devastating injury.

The Spanish midfielder's season-ending injury has left a gaping hole in the squad, and while Rico Lewis was given a go against Newcastle, it didn't quite click. Now, looking ahead to Tuesday Champions League showdown with Slovan Bratislava, Stones has thrown his hat into the ring, having shone in a similar role before.

Discussing Rodri's influence, Stones said: "It was difficult news for us all to take. I spoke to him and he's doing well. He's recovering well. The standard he's set over the past few seasons, it's been incredible. But we have a lot of quality in a lot of players more than capable of filling in in that position.

Asked about his own experience in the position, Stones explained: "I love it. It's a totally different look on the game, and gives you an appreciation of the game of players that have played in there.

"It gives you an understanding of the game, learning from a defender's point of view about when to receive the ball and when to pass the ball.

He added: "I always enjoy it and try to improve, every time I go in there. I think that's all the gaffer wants from us, to go and show our qualities, because he puts us there for a reason. Then it's about us going out and doing our job."

City are expected to dominate their Slovakian opponents, who were thrashed 5-0 by Celtic in their opening match, but Guardiola is refusing to underestimate them. Despite being without Kevin De Bruyne, Guardiola is boosted by the return of Phil Foden, who has been sidelined for most of the season due to illness and injuries.

Guardiola said: "I've learned in my career to take nothing for granted. And this opponent played with courage. I think a lot (about the Champions League), and sometime I overthink. Maybe I can have doubts about many things, but Phil Foden is going to be back.

"He was the best player in the Premier League last season, so we need him. Wow, he's an important, important player for us. The way he trains, his passion, he's going to be back and he's going to help us."