John Stones 'in quarantine away from England squad' as defender at risk of missing Euro 2024 opener
John Stones was kept away from his England team-mates
REUTERS
John Stones was reportedly 'quarantined in his bedroom' in a bid to keep his illness spreading throughout the England squad ahead of their Euro 2024 opener on Sunday.
Gareth Southgate is putting the final touches to his preparations with just days until England get their Euro 2024 campaign underway.
The 26-man squad, that was announced last week, touched down in Germany on Monday evening.
And Southgate was given an initial boost with both Luke Shaw and Stones participating in Tuesday's training session.
John Stones was kept away from his England team-mates
REUTERS
The Manchester United full-back is the only natural left-back in Southgate's squad, but he's been out injured for several months.
Stones picked up a knock in England's defeat against Iceland, but he appeared to brush off the issue to participate in training on Tuesday.
However, the Manchester City star was unable to participate in Wednesday's session due to an illness.
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton was asked about Stones' status during his media conference.
He said: "No idea[how he is]. I've not seen him today.
"I've just been told he's ill so I think he's just in his room so I haven't seen anything of him today."
According to the Telegraph, Stones was 'quarantined in his bedroom' in a bid to prevent the illness spreading through the England camp.
It raises questions on whether the centre-back will be available in time for England's opening group game against Serbia on Sunday (8pm).
John Stones picked up a knock against Iceland
REUTERS
Southgate is already without his most-trusted defender in Harry Maguire, who failed to prove his fitness in time for the Euros.
Stones and Marc Guehi are seen as Southgate's first-choice partnership, but it's one that is relatively unproven.
The pair have only started two games together for England with Ezri Konsa, Joe Gomez and Lewis Dunk the other options who could play.
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Gareth Southgate will want John Stones fit and ready to play
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Jarrell Quansah and Jarrad Branthwaite were in the provisional squad, but they were two of seven who failed to make it.
James Maddison, Maguire and Jack Grealish were the most high-profile names left out of Southgate's final 26-man squad.
Southgate indicated he would have chosen Maguire if he wasn't injured while both Maddison and Grealish were close calls.