Manchester United defender Luke Shaw was full of praise for reported Newcastle target Phil Jones after the centre-back made his first start in over two years.
Speaking to Sky Sports via the Evening Standard after their 1-0 loss to Wolves, the England international admired Jones’ display after being drafted into the XI following injuries to three United centre-backs.
It was the 29-year-old’s first start for the Red Devils since January 2020. Yet Jones impressed on the night, with the defender partnering Raphael Varane well in what was the only real positive note for Ralf Rangnick’s side on the night.
Indeed, Newcastle are reportedly keen on signing Jones, with the Sun claiming that the former Blackburn Rovers star is one of many defenders Eddie Howe is eager to sign this month.
And after last night’s performance, respect for Jones has no doubt increased from neutrals, with Shaw leading the praise for his United teammate.
The £27m signing from Southampton said: “People [have been] getting at him but he’s stuck by it, he’s so professional and trains so hard. And he got his chance tonight and I think he was phenomenal.”
Jones display for United shows that quality is there to perform in the PL
When it was announced that Jones would start for United against Wolves, many supporters were already fearing the worst. However, the defender yet again showed that he has the talent to star in the Premier League, and Newcastle should be taking notes.
After all, the Toon are desperately in need of signing a defender this January. And whilst it was only one game, Jones’ performance for United was enough to show that there’s still plenty in the tank to play regularly in the English top-flight.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
