'Incredible' - John Stones compares Leeds United's Kalvin Phillips to Italy legend Andrea Pirlo but vows 'Yorkshire Pirlo' nickname action
and live on Freeview channel 276
Stones was just 19 when facing Italian legend Pirlo during a friendly for Everton against Juventus in San Francisco back in 2012.
Nine years later, Stones is set to face the nation with whom Pirlo used to star for in Sunday's Euro 2020 final between Italy and England at Wembley.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdBut the Pirlo links even extend into the England team given that Leeds midfielder Philips has been given the nickname of the Yorkshire Pirlo in reference to the former Juventus star.
It is a nickname that makes City star Stones smile and the 27-year-old vowed to have words with Phillips and "get on him" after being informed about what Leeds fans were calling the 25-year-old United midfielder.
Stones, though, on a serious note, says that Phillips is an "incredible" player in his own right who has made everybody associated with him proud.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday ahead of Sunday's final against Italy, Stones was asked how the Yorkshire Pirlo and the real Pirlo compared and smiled: "They are two different players.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad"I have had the opportunity obviously to play with Kalvin and I believe he is his own player and has his own qualities.
"It's funny that he has been labelled the Yorkshire Pirlo - I'll get on him after this.
"But he's an incredible player and to see him come through and perform the way he has during this tournament, his first major tournament, I couldn't be happier for him.
"He's done himself so proud and obviously everyone back home."
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdA message from the Editor:
Leeds has a fantastic story to tell - and the Yorkshire Evening Post has been rooted firmly at the heart of telling the stories of our city since 1890.
We believe in ourselves and hope you believe in us too. We need your support to help ensure we can continue to be at the heart of life in Leeds.
https://www.yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk/news/why-yorkshire-evening-post-needs-your-support-laura-collins-yep-editor-2913382
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdSubscribe to our website and enjoy unlimited access to local news and information online and on our app.
With a digital subscription, you can read more than 5 articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content.
Click here to subscribe.
For more details on our newspaper subscription offers click here.
Thank you Laura Collins
Comment Guidelines
National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.