Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane has claimed that defensive duo Chris Smalling and Phil Jones have gone backwards at the club.

The England internationals were regulars throughout a frustrating campaign for United, and Keane believes that neither player had developed quickly enough, while also suggesting that Jones lacks toughness.

"They've had a platform for the last couple of years," Keane told reporters. "We were told two or three years ago Jones was going to be the new Duncan Edwards. Smalling was this...

"I've watched United live nine, 10 times this year and they have been none of those things. If anything I think they have gone backwards.

"They need to do a lot better if they want to cement their place at Man United and United to win trophies. Jones needs to toughen up. Every time I see him he is getting carried off. He's got to toughen up – he's playing for Man United."

United are believed to be close to appointing Louis van Gaal as manager to replace David Moyes, who was sacked last month.