"There comes a point where you don't know why it happens and it is even harder when you put in so much effort, or you are ultra professional, to be able to play and be available. When that time comes and something happens, it would be easier to say 'well I didn't do X, Y and Z that's why' -- but when you do it, it's then mentally challenging. Hopefully I don't go back to that place."
"I didn't want to do it. I had had enough of being so professional and trying to do everything right in my power, to then keep breaking down and not having the answers. It was a very difficult place to be in."
"My emotions were high. I wasn't thinking straight. I don't think deep down I would have ever done it [retired], I said years ago when City wanted me to have a new challenge, I said 'I am going to fight'. That's all I have known since I was a kid -- why should I stop that now? So yes, there is that fight in me and that winning mentality that doesn't wa"
John Stones, 31, is a Manchester City and England defender who suffered repeated hamstring and foot injuries last season that forced him to miss more than 30 games across all competitions. The injuries limited him to 11 Premier League appearances and kept him out of England selection under Thomas Tuchel since January, with a potential return against Wales or Latvia. The physical setbacks caused major mental strain and led him to contemplate retirement despite strict professionalism. Stones has returned to fitness this term and cites a persistent fighting mentality and desire to continue competing.
Read at ESPN.com
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