Newcastle United are eyeing a move for Manchester United outcast Phil Jones, according to Matt Porter of the Daily Mail.
Newcastle Eyeing Manchester United Outcast Phil Jones
Steve Bruce is a Fan of Phil Jones
Despite having the dislike of most of the Manchester side’s supporters, Steve Bruce is seemingly a fan of Phil Jones. The English defender has experience at the highest level in the Premier League and Champions League, making him desirable for a team without that sort of experience. Jones is also a hard working defender, but his skill level is what has prevented him from succeeding at United.
Problems at Manchester United
Phil Jones has struggled at Manchester United in recent times. While Sir Alex Ferguson tipped him to become ‘the greatest player in United’s history’, it has not worked out quite like that for the 28-year-old. He has failed to secure a regular place in United’s starting team, with his most league appearances coming in the 2011/12 season. Since then, Jones has been on the decline, and this season the Englishman has just two Premier League appearances. While many reach their peak at the age of 28, Jones is having his worst season yet and this is down to a number of things, with one of the biggest being the Red Devils’ abundance of centre-backs.
Manchester United’s most recent addition to their centre-backs was Harry Maguire. He arrived from Leicester City in the summer for a record fee and has settled as United’s first choice in the position. Victor Lindelof has slotted in beside him for much of the season, but the return of Eric Bailly is providing him with some competition. Furthermore, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will give Axel Tuanzebe as much experience as possible, with the 22-year-old having recently recovered from injury. Also, Chris Smalling will return from his loan spell in the summer. Having enjoyed a successful spell with Roma, his future is uncertain, with La Lupa interested in making his loan permanent. Overall, Jones is very low down in United’s pecking order, and with Newcastle offering him a lifeline, he will surely take it given the chance.
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