John Stones has admitted his first season at Manchester City has been a disappointment.
The England international joined City from Everton in a deal believed to be worth £47.5 million, but he has struggled to live up to the high expectations at the Etihad Stadium.
Stones received his fair share of criticism throughout the 2016-17 campaign, while City ended their first season under Pep Guardiola without any silverware, and the defender has acknowledged they should have done better.
"I was disappointed with my first season at City, purely because we had such a great team and we set the bar high," the centre-back told Mirror Sport.
"We all believed we could do better - and I know that I could have done better in some games. But I have a thick skin and I do not worry about criticism from the outside too much. Ultimately, I only listen to the manager, my team-mates and my family.
"The fee does not really make it harder for me. I am very fortunate to have been bought for that amount of money - almost flattered by City paying that much. And, of course, I want to do myself justice."
The 23-year-old made 41 appearances in all competitions in 2016-17, scoring two goals in the process.
