PHIL JONES has turned down a testimonial at Manchester United — claiming to team-mates only his mum and dad would turn up.
The central defender is acutely aware that he going through a rut at Old Trafford.
Phil Jones was woeful during Manchester United’s 3-3 draw at Sheffield UnitedCredit: PA:Empics Sport
Traditionally, United players who have served a decade at the club are honoured with a testimonial.
But Jones was happy to leave any commitment to such match out of the new contract he signed in February, according to the Athletic.
While earlier this year, he joked to Goal that “there’d be only my mum and dad who would turn up”, if they made the journey from the outskirts of Preston.
His terrible performance at Bramall Lane on Sunday in the 3-3 draw with Sheffield United left him “devastated”.
Jones was bullied by Lys Mousset, who barged him off the ball before supplying the assist for the Blades’ opener.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer then hauled Jones off at half time, changing the shape of his team and putting Jesse Lingard on instead.
Legendary Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson once made the comparison between a young Jones, who he had just signed from Blackburn Rovers for £16.5million.
In today’s money that is loose change for a club the size of United.
But there is no doubt the England defender, 27, has not lived up to Fergie’s expectations, despite capturing 27 England caps and playing 164 Premier League games for United.
Jones was bullied by Sheffield United striker Lys Mousset in the build-up to the opening goal of the gameCredit: Reuters
Jones has slipped down the pecking order at United but should be in the prime of his careerCredit: Reuters
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
