'World class' Stones a doubt for Uruguay friendly - Tuchel
[Getty Images] England manager Thomas Tuchel said Manchester City defender John Stones is a doubt for Friday's friendly against Uruguay because of a calf problem. Stones has made just 15 appearances in an injury-plagued campaign. The 31-year-old, whose club contract expires in June, has 87 caps for England and is highly-valued by Tuchel.
"Another world-class player," the England boss said. "He is so good with his experience and his game understanding, but he is a bit worried. "He has a slight concern in his calf, he feels his calf, he is not 100% free and I am not sure if he can play.
"It is a pity he can not fully rely at the moment on his body. He is very sensitive about it, but for me he is a super important person within the team and game understanding, in the tactical experience and the approach to adjust to different shapes of the opponent. Full of quality.
"He has been an important player for Manchester City in a winning environment and a winning club. On an everyday basis you have to live up to the highest expectations. This is so important.
"We have other top central defenders, but he can still play a part, with his energy and with his quality, but first of all I want him to be in camp as a player. "Let's see how this camp continues and how it plays out. " England's friendly at Wembley against Uruguay, who are ranked 15th in the world, kicks off at 19:45 GMT.