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Manchester United defender Phil Jones had a horrible start to this season and was not able to perform to the level expected of him, but the Englishman believes his manager Louis van Gaal has helped him grow as a player, and will bring out the best in him.
The player’s recent upturn in form has made him an integral part of the United defence along with fellow countryman Chris Smalling. He credits his success to Van Gaal as he believes it’s the Dutchman who is responsible for the development in his game.
Jones has played in a variety of positions this season due to the injury crisis faced by United, during which he has been used as a centre-back, right-back, as well as in the midfield.
In an interview he said: “I think it has made me a better player for adapting to different situations at different times in the game at club level and international level.
“He’s (Van Gaal) a good manager. We enjoy playing for him and we’ve learned a lot from him this season.”
Fitness key in Jones’ resurgence
The 23-year old was placed on a podium by former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson when the Scot compared Jones to the likes of Duncan Edwards and claimed that he could be one of United’s best players in the future. His form after the departure of Ferguson was far from what the 73-year old had predicted however, and with a string of injuries that followed, Jones found himself being sidelined by both club and country.
Jones though feels maintaining his fitness is what will take him further.
“I’m feeling good,” he said. “I’ve played quite a few games now in a row and I’m feeling confident and I’m feeling fit.
“It’s just repetition of routine day in day out and doing my own little workouts. Going into the gym, getting treatment when I need to and just generally looking after myself.”
