England boss Roy Hodgson has hailed John Stones for the way the Everton defender has handled the intense speculation linking him with Chelsea in the transfer window.
The Toffees turned down as many as three bids for Stones during the summer, and the centre-back saw a transfer request rejected by manager Roberto Martinez.
Hodgson told reporters: "He's done exceptionally well, hasn't he? It's a fact of life, the transfer window brings about this speculation.
"The way he's handled it at Everton has been quite fantastic. He's been 100% concentrated, focused and motivated to play since he's been with us.
"It is of no concern to me and won't affect his play [for England]."
Stones joined Everton in January 2013.
Written by
Paul Gorst
Paul Gorst
