Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has described Phil Jones as a "fantastic player" for the club's future.

The versatile 21-year-old is into his second season at Old Trafford following a £16.5m move from Blackburn Rovers in summer 2011.

"Jones is going to be a fantastic player, his talent is unbelievable," Ferguson told Inside United. "He's just that type of player, he's an animal for football.

"He grasps the game, he understands it. He's just one of those unusual players you get now and again who can play anywhere."

Jones is expected to feature in the United squad on Monday when the Premier League leaders host champions Manchester City.