Garth Crooks says Manchester United need Phil Jones for the Premier League title
Jose Mourinho started Jones alongside Eric Bailly in the heart of defence for Manchester United's opening 4-0 thrashing of West Ham yesterday.
Crooks believes Jones is United's best ball-playing defender, but says the England international needs to stop "crashing" into tackles.
Jones, 25, missed the most of Mourinho's first season at Old Trafford last term with a number of injury complaints.
"It was good to see Phil Jones fit and playing in a Manchester United shirt again," he told BBC Sport.
GETTY
Phil Jones started for Manchester United against West Ham
if Mourinho intends to challenge for the title, he is going to need a fully-fit Jones
Garth Crooks
"He has suffered more than his fair share of injuries over the years
"But if Jose Mourinho intends to challenge for the title this season then he is going to need a fully-fit Jones.
"The former Blackburn defender can no longer go crashing into every challenge as though his life depends on it.
"Of course, it's every defender's dream to leave something on his opponent but Jones has to wise up.
"Picking his tackles is a vital pre-requisite if he intends to be part of a title-winning team under Mourinho.
"Of all the central defenders at Old Trafford, Jones is the most comfortable on the ball.
"Chris Smalling is a warrior and Eric Bailly a great support act but if Jones can start to play with his head and not just his heart, United could be in for one hell of a season."
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