Phil Jones spotted back at Manchester United as former defender remains without a club
Phil Jones left Manchester United at the end of his contract earlier this summer but has been back at his former club observing academy training sessions. The 31-year-old has not signed for a new club after ending a 12-year stint at Old Trafford.
The England international’s Manchester United career petered out terribly over the last four or five years, making just six Premier League appearances over his final four seasons with the club.
Jones Back at Carrington Training Centre
Jones left at the end of the last campaign, but has been back at the Carrington training centre, where the Manchester Evening News reports he has simply been watching academy sessions.
A source told the MEN that the presence of former players like Jones is seen as helpful for academy prospects ‘to engage with someone who has a wealth of knowledge to pass on accumulated during his successful career’.
What’s Next for Jones?
What is next for Jones is not clear, only turning 31 this year so he should have plenty of time left in the game, but is yet to find a new club.
The defender admitted when he left United that it has been a very tough time as he dealt with a string of fitness issues over recent years.
“It’s been very difficult, the last couple of years,” Jones told United’s official website. “There’s no denying that. There is no hiding away from that. My family have been absolutely instrumental in keeping me on the straight and narrow and keeping me focused, to try to get fit and try to play more. And, you know, I’ve missed playing football. I missed it. You grow up playing football and all you want to do is play football.”
Manchester United’s Academy Prospects
Phil Jones’ presence at Manchester United’s academy training sessions is seen as beneficial for the club’s young prospects. His wealth of experience and knowledge of the game can be passed on to the next generation of players, helping them to develop their skills and reach their full potential.
The club has already seen success with their academy players in recent years, with Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford both breaking into the first team and becoming key players for United.
With Jones now back at the club, it is hoped that he can help to nurture more young talent and help them to make the step up to senior football.
Conclusion
Phil Jones’ return to Manchester United may not be permanent, but his presence at the club’s academy training sessions is seen as beneficial for the club’s young prospects. His wealth of experience and knowledge of the game can be passed on to the next generation of players, helping them to develop their skills and reach their full potential.
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