Man for all season: Manchester United's Phil Jones loving Old Trafford life

Phil Jones

Phil Jones is so versatile he insists he could even play in goal. Manchester Uniteds man of the moment has been likened to Franco Baresi by Fabio Capello and Sir Bobby Charlton has drawn comparisons with the legendary Duncan Edwards.

His outstanding performances for England in the past week could finally see Sir Alex Ferguson unearth the midfield general he has been looking for since the days of Roy Keane.

And now the 19-year-old says he could do a stint between the sticks if club or country demanded.

I used to play right midfield when I was younger, he said. I also played striker when I was younger.

The only positions Ive never played in are left midfield, left-back and goalkeeper. I think Id be decent in goal, Id fling myself around a lot.

Jones has played on the right and centre of defence, as well as roles as a holding and attacking midfielder for United and England this season.

It has seen him become a key figure at Old Trafford following his 16.5m move from Blackburn last summer and move to the head of the queue to make Capellos Euro 2012 squad.

And far from being concerned that he will be burdened with the dreaded utility man tag he hopes it will see him continue to play a starring role both at Old Trafford and on the international stage.

I think versatility is always an advantage, he said. It allows you to play more. I dont see how it could be a disadvantage.

Hopefully, in time Ill nail down a regular place in a set position. For now, though, Im just happy to play football.

My favourite position is centre-back and I think thats where Ill end up as my career develops. The bottom line is that I enjoy playing football and Ill play anywhere.

In only a matte! r of mon ths at United Jones is already being tipped as a future captain for club and country.

Fearless

He describes himself as cheerful, fearless and optimistic, so it is little wonder he welcomes the plaudits that are coming his way, rather than wilt under the weight of expectation.

To be mentioned in the same sentence as Duncan Edwards is a huge honour, he said. He was playing well before my time but I certainly knew about him growing up.

It inspires me to go on and become a better player. It makes me want to work even harder in training.

As for the England captaincy, its nice as well. But I need to keep my feet on the ground and play well for Manchester United.

Then Ill keep getting the chance to play for England. If I could captain England one day then I think that would be the pinnacle of my career.

It is a testament to Jones precocious talent that both Ferguson and Capello have such faith in his ability to adapt to a host of different roles.

It has already ensured 16 appearances for United this term and earned three England caps.

I think Ive come on a lot, he said. Not that I wasnt technically good before I was reasonable but when youre training with these guys every day youre bound to improve.

My feet have quickened, I can shift the ball a lot quicker. And the more I keep training with these guys the better Ill get. Im looking forward to that.

The likelihood is that he will return to right back for United at Swansea tomorrow.

Jones doesnt mind as long as it leads to more silverware, following the Community Shield success on his debut.

Id never won a competitive trophy before, he said. That was really nice and probably my favourite moment so far.

Ive had a lot of good moments so far but that was probably the best one. I thought to myself at Wembley: Ive been here two minutes and Ive ! already got a trophy.

I used to think, I cant stand that club when they always score in the last minute. But now I love it. Im not complaining one bit.

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