Everton shown evidence that John Stones is ready to return as links intensify

Everton may have been watching closely as England beat Costa Rica 3-0, with John Stones starting at the back.

Declan Rice, Anthony Gordon and Ollie Watkins scored for Thomas Tuchel's side, who will kick off their World Cup against Croatia next week.

The 32-year-old former Toffee, Stones, is a target at Hill Dickinson Stadium this summer, with his contract at Manchester City expiring at the end of the month.

However, there remains doubts over the England international's injury record and wages, which are expected to be significant.

But on Wednesday, Stones showed that his ability is absolutely still there and, if Everton can extract it on a regular basis, they will be gaining a top presence.

The six-time Premier League champion is expected to start at the back against Croatia, although there remains question marks over whether his partner will be Ezri Konsa or Marc Guehi.

John Stones pic.twitter.com/4EAIc1sqH0

Football Insider exclusively revealed last month that Everton are interested in Stones, along with Jack Grealish and Ben White this summer.

David Moyes is looking to strengthen throughout his squad, with the Scot keen to add both quality and experience.

All three potential deals undoubtedly come with a significant amount of risk, too, though.

Stones, in particular, has suffered from massive injury issues in recent years. Hamstring and knee issues, among others, have seen him miss countless Premier League games.

Despite having left Everton for Man City almost 10 years ago, the defender only ever made 200 more appearances for the Citizens than he did in three years at Goodison Park.

Wednesday's game was a reminder, however. The 32-year-old completed 49 of his 50 attempted passes in his 63 minutes on the pitch, completing two long balls and five passes into the final third.

Representing for the final time before the 2026 @FIFAWorldCup. pic.twitter.com/cJy6uJ1dhG

Defensively, he was resolute, winning all of his duels, making a tackle and three recoveries. Stones is clearly still up to the task, but it remains a question of fitness.

Tuchel's decision to include Stones in the World Cup squad over the likes of Harry Maguire was a controversial one.

The defender has barely played this season, and there is a significant risk that an injury in the first games could see him miss the rest of the tournament.

"He feels good and totally competitive," Tuchel said, when asked about the decision. "He hasn’t played as many minutes as we’d like but he was available and not injured.

"He offers us a lot. He is a player of the highest level, offering us a lot in being able to step into midfield and build-up, he can switch in different formation. He’s a proven winner, knows what it takes.

"And a very nice personality and totally accepted, a nice person, humble. It’s the full package. I’m very happy he arrived in a calm state of mind and ready to go."

For Moyes, the feeling may be shared. Stones would be a phenomenal face to have back at Everton, and his presence may be worth the risk alone.