He's 6f 2, nineteen years old and a “future England captain”. He goes by the name of Phil Jones. The commanding centre back has recently joined Premier League Champions Manchester United.
Phil Jones wasn’t expected to have many first team opportunities this season, one would naturally find it difficult to break into the first team with Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic in front of him, however due to injuries, Vidic and Ferdinand, the later who turns 33 this year, Jones has grabbed his opportunities with both hands and foot !
He had a tough, energy zapping debut in the searing heat of Chicago. His second match was against fiercest rivals Manchester City. He came on as a second half substitute for Rio Ferdinand, United fans were worrying 2-0 down at half time but Jones came on and added an extra solidity to ensure United had a firm base to start their attacks from.
Magnificent performances from Phil Jones question the languid Rio Ferdinand’s place in team. Ferdinand is a marvellous player, beautifully playing out from the back but he has always had that error in concentration once in a while. Injuries have also plague the former West Ham and Leeds man who United’s career may be coming to an end.
Another contributing factor to the question mark over Rio Ferdinand’s place in the team, is Chris Smalling. From Maidstone to Manchester United, Non League football to one of Europe’s finest clubs, from an unknown centre back to a prospective Rio Ferdinand replacement at the Premier League Champions. What a transition for the young man who has dealt with the change admirably. Recently he has been filling in a right back, a position he has only been playing since the USA pre season tour. His power is a standout factor on the right hand side which has been a revelation as United do not have the strongest side compared to the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea. Smalling’s rise and signing of Phil Jones has placed added pressure on Ferdinand, who not only has to worry the pair but Johnny Evans as well. Three promising centre backs vying for first team places. Rio Ferdinand must surly be feeling the heat.
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