Mature Jones ‘gets on with it’ after own goal

PHIL JONES will not beat himself up over the own goal that threatens Manchester United’s Champions League place.

Jones suffered the harsher side of footballing life at Old Trafford as he turned Nicolas Gaitan’s cross into his own net just three minutes into the 2-2 draw with Benfica. United ultimately had to settle for a point that leaves them needing to avoid defeat against FC Basle next month to reach the knockout phase.

Still only 19, Jones adopted a remarkably mature approach.

“It happens,” he said. “Own goals happen to the best. What can you do? I am not going to let my head drop. You win some, you lose some and get on with it. Apart from that I thought I played reasonably well.”

Javier Hernandez feels United have already proved they have the character to come through their Champions League examination in Switzerland.

“The whole history of Manchester United is about never giving in. We are still in the fight and we are confident of getting the right result.”

United face Newcastle on Saturday while Manchester City face a tough trip to Liverpool, and Jones knows it is an opportunity that should not be squandered. “City have done fantastically this season but they have some tough games coming up.

“I don’t care how good you are, teams can be put under pressure. This is a difficult league to be in.”

Hernandez believes United can overcome the potential loss of Wayne Rooney, who is struggling for fitness.

“At Manchester United, there are no heroes. It is the team that scores, that is why I have never set myself a goals target.”