While Phil Jones’ versatility is proving invaluable to Manchester United it is also harming his chances of playing in central defence for England according to Roy Hodgson.
Jones has been deployed in a variety of positions for the Reds popping up at right-back, centre-back, and central midfield.
However, the youngster has stated publicly that his desire is to cement his place at the heart of England and Manchester United’s defence.
“Phil has been a victim of his own versatility,” Hodgson told PA Sport
“We think he is a very fine player. We like him very much.
“But if he going to knock Phil Jagielka and Gary Cahill off their perch he is going to have to perform in the Premier League.
“I haven’t had an awful lot of chance to see him there.
Jones started United’s Community Shield match against Wigan in central defence which suggested that David Moyes sees Jones as a long term defender.
However, when injury forced off Rafael, Jones was switched to right-back as Chris Smalling came on in central defence.
With the World Cup on the horizon Jones will be hoping to get consistent playing time at centre back; however, with Ferdinand, Vidic, Smalling, and Evans all vying for a starting spot in the middle of defence Jones might find his versatility haunting him again.
Image courtesy of Sky Sports via YouTube, with thanks.
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