It is a tribute to the talent of John Stones that he represents something more than a club. Stones stands for a philosophy.
He represents the idea that an English centre-half can be cultured and elegant. He represents the idea that English footballers can develop the technique and the grace to stand alongside the best in Europe.
He is a battlefield, too. English audiences still grow nervous when defenders try to play. 'Get rid of it,' is still the cry most often heard when a centre-half gets the ball.
It is our England curse, one of the things that holds us back and something coaches are trying to change.