Fergie: Jones can fill a Baresi role
The Manchester United manager snapped Jones up from Blackburn in the summer for £17 million (€20 million). It seemed a lot to pay for a 19-year-old but if anything, Jones’ performances since suggest United got a bargain.
Capello is among those who have been impressed. Having handed Jones his international debut in the right-back role in Montenegro last month, the England coach shoved him into midfield for recent encounters with Spain and Sweden.
Although Jones did not look so comfortable in the first of those games, in an advanced position, in the holding role against Sweden, he was superb. It prompted Capello to liken the Preston-born youngster to Baresi, which Ferguson does not feel is that far wide of the mark.
“His improvement has been really eye-catching,” said the United boss. “We know he is 19. We know it is a big step up coming from Blackburn to Manchester United. But the boy has been absolutely fantastic.
“He can play anywhere. He is two-footed. He is quick. He has good perception of the game. I am not surprised what Fabio is saying.”
The question for Ferguson is whether, after such a hectic period, he should pick Jones again when United make their first trip to Swansea in almost 30 years today.
Even with Tom Cleverley ruled out until Christmas after suffering a recurrence of an ankle ligament strain, Ferguson feels United have sufficient central midfield options.
Darren Fletcher, Anderson and the returning Michael Carrick are all available, whilst Ryan Giggs and Park Ji-sung are capable of operating in that area in addition to Wayne Rooney. Ferguson does not view it as an area of concern.
“I have options. I am not over-worried about it,” he said.
The United boss was also full of praise for record signing Dimitar Berbatov, who is certain to receive a one-year contract extension.
“Dimitar is still in my thoughts,” said Ferguson. “He is an outstanding footballer and we will give the extra year.’’
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