Everton defender John Stones has revealed his intention to emulate former Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand.
The Toffees youngster, who is part of the England Under-21 squad for the upcoming European Championships, has developed a burgeoning reputation as a ball-playing defender.
Stones stated that his first priority is simply to deny opposition forwards, but said that he has tried to base his game on ex-England international Ferdinand, who retired earlier this year.
Stone is quoted as saying by The Express: "I used to watch Rio play, loved the way he came out with the ball and speaking to the [senior] lads when we were just watching a game in the hotel, they used to say how good he was at doing that.
"I'd love to create this image of me doing what Rio did but I also want to be known as a great defender who can keep clean sheets. But it has to be a mixture. Do both sides. Throwing your body on the line is the biggest part for a defender.
"I've always been taught to bring the ball out, play from the back and Roberto Martinez at Everton has taught me to do that - as has the gaffer [Gareth Southgate] here as well."
Stones joined the Toffees from Barnsley in January 2013.
Paul Gorst
