Phil Jones set for Man Utd training return in ‘big plus’ for defender after 18 months out with knee injury

PHIL JONES is set to return for Manchester United after 18 months out with a knee injury.

The 29-year-old defender has been at Old Trafford for over a decade but last played in the FA Cup win at Tranmere in January 2020.

France’s World-Cup winning centre-half Raphael Varane will finally complete his transfer move from Real Madrid to the Red Devils this week.

Now Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is due to receive another boost as the England international nears a return to action.

And Jones’ comeback has opened the door for youngster Axel Tuanzebe to head out on loan in search of regular action with Newcastle leading the chase.

Solskjaer said: “I can see, with Raphael looking like everything is sorted there, I can see Axel going out.

“I’ve got Raphael Varane, [Harry] Maguire, [Victor] Lindelof, Eric Bailly and Phil Jones is due to start training over the weekend when we’ve got everyone in on Monday.”

Solskjaer also admitted he sympathises with Jones over the star’s injury woes.

The Norwegian was plagued with a knee problem himself towards the end of his career and was forced to miss the full 2004/05 campaign 

Discussing the return of Jones, he said: “Big plus for him.

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He added: “If he can play 23s to start with, behind closed doors, I know exactly the feeling of being out for so long.

“He’s always served the club well and it was time to look after him and his own health. Now he’s ready to train with us.”

United kick-off the new Premier League season at home to Leeds on August 14.

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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk