John Stones makes emotional admission ahead of England clash with Wales - 'I thought about stopping'

Despite his influence on the squad waning in recent years, Stones cuts an iconic figure at the Etihad Stadium after a remarkable trophy haul that includes six Premier League titles and a Champions League victory during his near-decade in the northwest.

But it has been nine years since the centre-back has made more than 25 league appearances in a season, with his last campaign marking his lowest figure since he was a teenager at Barnsley.

The former Everton star revealed to the BBC that last season took its toll, almost forcing the star into making the tough decision to retire despite his age.

"Last season was tough for me, to the point where I thought about stopping," Stones admitted.

"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.

"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.

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"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 want to stop."

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Despite his injury woes, Stones has been an ever-present in the England side over the years, particularly at major tournaments where he has played a role in five consecutive international competitions.

However, it has now been one year since his last national team appearance; a duck he will be hoping to break against Wales later this week.

That’s because the defender has been included in a Thomas Tuchel Three Lions squad for just the second time since his arrival in January, while he is yet to even make an appearance under the German.

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Stones continued by declaring his love for playing for his country, an honour he has achieved on 83 occasions: "My love for England, I think it's difficult to put into words. I love England so much - I love playing for England.

"I have had some of the best moments in my career playing for England [and at] tournaments. When he [Tuchel] said, 'Will I come out and be with the guys and continue my training?', it was a no-brainer.

"I wanted to be there, be around the guys. He saw it from so many points of view. I hadn't been around the team, he knew that I was lonely training by myself, being in a difficult spot.

“To be a presence, to be someone to speak to, a vent for the younger guys. I suppose knowing that someone [who is not fit] is willing to come and be part of a team, that shows a great deal to the lads that are coming into the squad and what England has and has created over the years.

"For me to come and show my face, offer advice, be a good team-mate - it was a special moment."