Combined Best XI: Sunderland vs. Manchester City
By Larry Henry
![MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - AUGUST 13: Manchester City defender John Stones (r) challenges Jermain Defoe in action during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Sunderland at Etihad Stadium on August 13, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - AUGUST 13: Manchester City defender John Stones (r) challenges Jermain Defoe in action during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Sunderland at Etihad Stadium on August 13, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/976b0fa8e82652514eb53a2285cda7a3d013db5f660fdfa14e396fdef2767e50.jpg)
First Centerback – John Stones
Lately, Stones’ excellent play in the back has made it tough for Pep Guardiola to give him a rest. Overall he has seen time in 33 matches in all competitions this season and that number will certainly increase with City’s involvement in the Champions League and F.A. Cup. His confidence in the back has grown, while he has helped Manchester City sure up the back-line. At 22, Stones still has a bright future ahead and hopefully it is with Manchester City.