Stones disagrees with De Bruyne, insists it is ‘easy’ to be motivated for Nations League fixtures

John Stones says his experience of being left out the England squad makes him “cherish” every time he is called up for his country.

Speaking last week, his Manchester City teammate Kevin De Bruyne complained about the international schedule this month, labelling the Nations League fixtures as “glorified friendlies”.

Ranking the early-summer mood around all 20 Premier League clubs

The Belgium midfielder said: “For me, the Nations League is not important. We have to play these games, but it feels like a campaign of friendly games. Just glorified friendlies after a long and tough season. I’m not looking forward to it.

“In 12 months we have three weeks of holiday. The people from the outside do not understand how a player feels after a season. But they don’t have to because it won’t change anything. It doesn’t even matter to mention it, nothing will change anyway.”

Arsenal need to be bold this transfer window

David de Gea likely to be next Man United captain

William Saliba is ready for Arsenal chance

Wales quality for World Cup in style

Newcastle want Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Inter looking at Romelu Lukaku loan deal

Liverpool and Man United both looking at Mason Mount

Liverpool join the race for Darwin Nunez

Liverpool target Pulisic as Mane replacement

Manchester United begin talks for Jurrien Timber

Stones insists that he doesn’t see much of a challenge when it comes to being motivated for the games. He said (quotes via the Evening Standard): “I think it’s easy. You’ve got to always be ready and fighting.

"We'd play all year round if we could."

John Stones dismisses the end of the club season had an effect on England's performance against Hungary pic.twitter.com/pLDYIxTQA3

— Football Daily (@footballdaily) June 6, 2022

“The