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Jesus relieved to have Stones back in Man City defence but hails stand-in Fernandinho

The young forward was quick to praise the player who stepped in at the back but eager to see a natural centre-back come back

Manchester City forward Gabriel Jesus has praised compatriot Fernandinho’s performances in central defence, while welcoming the return of John Stones.

The Brazil international said that Fernandinho, typically a defensive midfielder, had performed admirably when pressed into service in the back line as the result of an injury crisis for the Premier League champions.

Stones, a central defender by trade, is back in training at City, and could take his place alongside Nicolas Otamendi against Crystal Palace on Saturday, a development Jesus welcomed.