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John Stones playing in midfield is no longer a new concept but this, in a Champions League final, was something else. "I played as more of a No 8 today," he grinned afterwards, "which I loved."
His enjoyment was obvious, even in the context of an edgy encounter. While others looked rushed, implored by Pep Guardiola to "relax", Stones was serene, taking the ball under pressure then slaloming away from defenders deep in Inter Milan territory.
He left the pitch, this 29-year-old centre-back from Barnsley, having made the most dribbles in a Champions League final since Lionel Messi in 2015. Little wonder the Manchester City fans inside the Ataturk Olympic Stadium gave him a standing ovation.
Guardiola showed his appreciation too, holding an arm around his shoulder as they soaked it all up during the celebrations afterwards. The City boss might just reflect on the decision to push Stones into midfield as the catalyst for this historic achievement.