Jose Mourinho: I’m really happy with ‘three fantastic points’
That’s according to BBC pundit Garth Crooks.
Jones has started all six of Manchester United’s Premier League matches so far this season, helping his side to keep five clean sheets in the process.
And the England international put in another impressive display in United’s narrow 1-0 win over Southampton ensured United stayed level on points with leaders Manchester City at the top of the table.
Crooks believes the 25-year-old will play a crucial part in Jose Mourinho’s quest for his first title at Old Trafford.
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Phil Jones is crucial to Manchester United's bid for the Premier League title, says Garth Crooks
I have already gone on record and said if United are going to win the league title they are going to need a fully fit Jones for much of it.
Garth Crooks
“This was a very solid performance by the entire United back four but on this occasion it was marshalled and led by Phil Jones at the heart of their defence,” Crooks said when assessing United’s win at St Mary’s.
“The England international is having a decent run of games at the moment.
“I have already gone on record and said if United are going to win the league title they are going to need a fully fit Jones for much of it.
“Southampton were unlucky not to get something out of this game and without some resolute defending by the visitors it might have been a different proposition entirely.
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Phil Jones has helped Manchester United keep five clean sheets this season
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“However, this was Jose Mourinho at his best. He sensed that his bunch of exceptionally talented individuals were not having it all their own way and if they were going to get anything out of this fixture then they were going to have to dig in.
“It was the performance by Jones that stood out for me. He's now staying on his feet far more than when he first arrived at Old Trafford and doesn't go crashing into opponents needlessly anymore, which probably accounts for his clean bill of health.”
Mourinho will now switch his attention to the Champions League with United taking on CSKA Moscow on Wednesday night (7.45pm).
