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John Stones: Last season's failed Chelsea switch a 'blessing in disguise'

Carl Recine / Reuters

To see a list of completed deals in the summer window thus far, visit theScore's Premier League transfer tracker.

John Stones says missing out on a move to Chelsea last summer was a "blessing in disguise," because it's allowed him to instead work under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.

The 22-year-old's form dipped for Everton as the repeated offers from the Blues had an unsettling affect, but he's now started every competitive outing so far this season, as he looks to develop in Manchester.

Related: Manchester City bags Stones for reported £47.5M

"I suppose what happened turned out to be a blessing in disguise," Stones told The Mirror. "I stated last year what I wanted to do. It didn't happen and so I just got on with it, kept going, set out to win games and improve as a player.

"For me personally, I am now working with the best manager in the world. I'm over the moon to be at City and learning from a manager like Pep Guardiola."

In an innovative system of inverted wing-backs and Fernandinho often busying himself through the middle of the centre-halves, Stones has adapted quickly. But despite showing a composure which belies his tender years, he hasn't ruled out errors in his game this season.

"Obviously I am going to make some mistakes, but it is how I look to correct those and keep moving forward as a player," Stones continued. "I came here because I want to be a winner. I'm like every other player - I just want to win some silverware."

City's bid for the Premier League title continues on Sunday, when West Ham United visits the Etihad Stadium.

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