Chris Smalling v John Stones
Chris Smalling
Heading
8
Strong in the air and can win headers in either box.
Tackling
8
A good, strong tackler, when he is positioned correctly to put one in.
Passing
5
This is the weakest part of his game. He seems to panic on the ball, especially when he has time and space.
Strength
7
Strong, though he can be mentally weak and lose the physical battle by losing his head and putting himself in the wrong place.
Pace
8
Very quick for a centre back.
Chris Smalling
John Stones
Heading
8
Very good in the air. Surprisingly so for a player known for being good with his feet, he is actually better at heading.
Tackling
6
Not the best tackler, it is something he looks to avoid doing if at all possible.
Passing
7
Known for being good with his feet, but his range of passes and vision leave a lot to be desired for a ball playing centre half. He is comfortable being on the ball but that is a long way from being a good passer of the ball.
Strength
7
Is improving in this area each season. No longer a weakness in his game, now he is strong enough to hold his own against most.
Pace
8
Good pace, one of the quicker centre halves, not just in outright pace, but also in acceleration.
John Stones