‘He was magnificent’ - Man Utd legend praises surprise Man City star following Everton win

Rio Ferdinand hailed John Stones after Manchester City leapfrogged Liverpool to go top of the Premier League.

The Reds ultimately reclaimed their place at the summit of the division just hours later by putting Burnley to the sword on home soil. But City supporters would have liked what they saw in the second half, with Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland linking up to put Everton out of sight.

While Haaland’s brace will attract the post-match praise, former Manchester United defender Ferdinand paid tribute to Stones’ performance. The England international has endured a frustrating campaign due to injury, starting just seven Premier League games before today’s clash.

Stones has been instrumental to City’s and England’s recent successes - developing into one of Europe's best centre-backs despite inconsistencies earlier in his career. The 29-year-old looked back to his rock-solid best against former club Everton as Pep Guardiola’s men coasted to a 2-0 win.

Speaking post-match, ex-United star Ferdinand revered the “calmness” Stones brings to City. He told TNT Sports: “John Stones, in particular, brings calmness and assuredness to this team. Last season he was magnificent in the run-in in that new midfield role.

“Today he was more defensive-minded but he’s got that experience now. He was here when Pep came in that first season (and) he’s been ever-present since. When you have that experience on the pitch, in games like today where you’re not functioning properly, you’re not getting loads of shots off, inexperienced players can panic – not with those guys (Stones and De Bruyne) on the pitch.”