John Stones Misses England Training Session Due To Illness Before Euro 2024

John Stones missed England's second training session in Germany due to illness, just four days before the start of their Euro 2024 campaign. The Manchester City defender had played in the Three Lions' 1-0 defeat to Iceland last week but was substituted at half-time after sustaining an injury. Despite this, he participated in training on Tuesday in Blankenhain.

Gareth Southgate has faced several absentees and fitness concerns leading up to the tournament. Stones' long-term international defensive partner, Harry Maguire, was left out of the squad due to injury. England's official X account posted on Wednesday that the squad was training that morning, except for Stones, who was absent due to illness.

The #ThreeLions squad is out at training this morning, except John Stones who misses out through illness. pic.twitter.com/o4cevMbxmu

— England (@England) June 12, 2024

Among the central defenders available in the 26-man squad, Stones has the most appearances for his nation, totalling 72 caps. Of these, 19 have come during major tournaments. The 30-year-old's total is the third-highest in the England squad and is double the combined appearances of Joe Gomez, Marc Guehi, Lewis Dunk, and Ezri Konsa, who have featured for their country a total of 36 times.

As England prepares for their Group C fixture against Serbia on Sunday, Southgate will be hoping for a quick recovery for Stones. His experience and presence are crucial for England's defensive stability as they aim to make a strong start in Euro 2024.