Preparation key to Manchester City’s winning run, Stones says

Manchester City’s recovery process after every match and their comprehensive preparation for the next game are key to their ongoing 15-match winning streak across all competitions, defender John Stones says.

City are unbeaten this season and have won every game, following their 1-1 Premier League draw with Everton in August.

They have opened an eight-point lead at the top of the standings and are progressing to the knockout stages of the Champions League.

“A lot of it is down to the preparation and post-match,” Stones told reporters on Tuesday.

“The recovery we do, how we go about things in the few days before the next game, the staff keep us fit and healthy and keep that mental state, the winning run.”

The 23-year-old also believes that his teammates’ hunger to win their first league title since 2014 and the first trophy since their League Cup triumph in 2016 drives them on.

“That comes from everyone, the hunger, the fight. The boys have won titles and are hungry to do it again. That’s driving us on,” Stones said.

“For people like me who haven’t won anything, it’s all about progressing, getting as many points as we can and hopefully to achieve our targets, which is to get silverware.”

The England centre-back has previously been criticised for his nervy performances but has regained form as City have become increasingly dominant.

Guardiola’s side have conceded just seven league goals, while scoring 38 in 11 games this season.

“When you’re enjoying it, playing well, your mind is free and things come off,” Stones added.

“I want to keep improving, keep this form going, striving to keep getting better. I think I am every day.

“If I keep doing that, keep doing things right, then hopefully I can stay at this form. Everyone will love to stay at their peak for 10 years, but it’s not going to happen.”

League leaders City travel to Leicester City on November 18 after the conclusion of the international break.