John Stones returns to England coaching simply sooner or later after sickness

England were given an important boost for their Euro 2024 opener against Serbia as John Stones returned to training on Thursday following an illness.

The Manchester City defender had been isolating away from his compatriots throughout Wednesday to prevent his sickness spreading through the squad.

Doubts had arisen as to whether Stones would recover in time to start in the centre of defence in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday, with Lewis Dunk waiting on standby.

But it seems the 30-year-old has shrugged off his bug as all 26 members of Gareth Southgate‘s squad were seen on the training pitches in Blankenhain. 

Stones is the Three Lions’ most experienced defender, and without Harry Maguire in the squad Southgate will be hoping his return to the turf spells good news for his fitness levels.

John Stones was seen training on Thursday just one day after missing a session through illness

The Manchester City defender’s return will certainly please England boss Gareth Southgate 

All 26 players took to the pitch as they prepare for Sunday’s opener against Serbia 

Stones, 30, was not keeping his distance away from the team anymore as he got down to work

The defender has struggled to stay match ready for the majority of the past year. He only featured 12 times in the Premier League for Manchester City as they stormed to a fourth successive title.

His worries have leaked into international duty too as he was forced off at half-time in England’s 1-0 loss to Iceland last week due to an ankle problem.

However, his scares may be behind him as he was seen back in action alongside his compatriots, with a stern look on his face.

More to follow.