Jones: I'd Have Snapped Someone's Hand Off For 40 Games

Phil Jones is pleased with how his first season has gone with Manchester United, after playing in 40 games in all competitions. Only Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra have played in more games than our youngster, who turned 20 a couple of months ago.

“It’s gone really well,” Jones told the official site. “If anyone had told me at the start of the season I would have made 40 appearances for Manchester United I would have snapped their hands off. It’s incredible. I didn’t expect it this season. It was relatively easy to adjust because at Blackburn I always saw myself as a player who likes to get the ball down and play. That is what United love to do, get the ball down and play. The players have also helped me and made me feel so welcome. There is definitely an element of personal intimidation. You always raise the question to yourself. You wonder: ‘Am I good enough to be here?’ But the manager has shown faith in me. Perhaps I picked up a few injuries at the wrong time in the back end of the season. I couldn’t really get my match fitness back. I was in and out of the team. But now I feel good, fit and fresh. Hopefully I can finish the season strongly.”