The defender of Manchester City and England, John Stones, revealed that he considered retiring from football last season after he was plagued with injuries.
Stones, 31, suffered repeated problems with his hamstrings and foot the last term that made him lose more than 30 games in all competitions.
It is those injuries that have meant that Stones has not played for England with Thomas Tuchel since the German manager began working in January, although he could return against Wales or Latvia this month.
“Last season it was difficult for me, to the point where I thought about stopping,” Stones told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“I didn't want to do it. I had enough to be so professional and try to do everything right in my possession, to continue breaking and not having the answers. It was a very difficult place to be.”
He added: “There is a point where you don't know why it happens and it is even more difficult when you make so much effort, or you are ultra professional, to be able to play and be available.
“When that moment comes and something happens, it would be easier to say 'Well, I did not do x, and y z, so', but when you do, it is then a challenge mentally. I hope not to return to that place.”
Stones had only 11 appearances in the Premier League last season after being a constant element in the Pep Guardiola background, although this term has returned to physical aptitude.
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“My emotions were high. I wasn't thinking about the right thing. I don't think I would have ever done it deep down. [retired]”Stones continued.
“I said years ago when City wanted me to have a new challenge, I said 'I'm going to fight.' That's all I have known since I was a child, why should I stop that now?
“So yes, there is that fight in me and that winning mentality that does not want to stop.”
