Phil Jones: Versatility at its best

A player younger than you and me manning the barricades for one of the most high profile football clubs in the world, Phil Jones continues his fairy-tale run of establishing himself in the world of football. A centre-back who can play on the right and in midfield, now that is something you don’t get to see very often. Being touted as the next John Terry and having already drawn comparisons to the legendary Duncan Edwards, Jones has a lot to live up to and he seems to be relishing the prospect of living up to it.

Defensively solid coupled with some breath-taking attacking runs makes him a player to watch out for all the time. United have finally found their ideal replacement for Owen Hargreaves in this prodigious young lad. Debates have already sprung up regarding his position in the team. Tall and well built, Phil Jones seems apt for the center back role but his pace makes him even more dangerous and this makes him an even more lethal right back. At the right back position, his performance against Bolton Wanderers early this season was truly world class where his marauding runs caused mayhem in the Bolton camp.

Again a solid performance against Chelsea enhanced his reputation although there were a few lapses in the defence where Torres managed to get the better of him and score a goal, but still his performance was noteworthy. Again against Stoke City he allowed Crouch to get the better of him in the air and head home. Of course no player is perfect and this lad has a lot to learn. He has some great players to mentor him and under the watchful eyes of Sir Alex, a lot can be expected from his youngster.

Fabio Capello did employ him in the midfield during England’s game against Spain where his performance was not that great. But let’s face it, playing against the likes of Xavi and Iniesta is a nightmare for any player and this guy is just 19! However Jones’ performance yesterday against Aston Villa brings back the debate as the goal he scored was just brilliant! His distribution of play was tremendous too. Is he a center back or is he a right back or is he a midfielder? England’s future does look bright with the fresh breed of talent emerging. The goal had always been coming. Congratulations Jones!