England’s 1-0 defeat to Hungary at the weekend means Gareth Southgate’s side are bottom of Group, C with Germany and Italy drawing 1-1 in the other group clash.
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The loss in Budapest puts extra pressure on the Three Lions to put in a big performance against the Germans, and Stones believes tapping into last summer’s Round of 16 win at Wembley will help the team draw strength ahead of a traditionally difficult fixture.
“Everyone felt the same as the players,” said Stones, recalling the 2-0 victory.
“It was an incredible stage that we beat them on, home turf, and it was a big step for us as a team and a nation to progress in that tournament and to show ourselves what we are capable of.
“We have set a marker now. We have beaten big teams, playing well against them and that is the challenge for us as players now.
“The other day (against Hungary) was a big learning curve for us as a collective. We have had an incredible run.
“That stopped the other day, and we had a loss in god knows how many games.
“That’s down to us how we bounce back, show our character in these games - and what a game to do that.”
Asked how hard it was to get mentally and physically prepared for international games after a long season, Stones says he feels fine and raring to go – adding he could play all-year round!
“I think it is easy,” he said. “You have got to be always ready and fighting.
“The feeling in the camp around the place with players is that I think we would play all year round if we could.
“We know how important this period is, there are not many games leading up the World Cup. Everyone is fighting for a place.
“We are trying to create partnerships. Playing in these big games can only be a big learning curve and positive as a team.”
Stones, speaking at Monday’s England press conference, was joined by manager Southgate who gave brief updates on two of Stones’ City team-mates.
“Raheem is absolutely fine,” said Southgate when asked about Sterling’s availability.
And regarding Phil Foden who withdrew from the squad with illness last week, he added: “Phil is still being monitored back home. It is going to be a very individual thing. We don’t know how everyone is going to react.”
