Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has admitted that he has been impressed with the recent form of Phil Jones.
Jones has been plagued by injuries since moving to Old Trafford in 2011 and earlier this season, Mourinho suggested that the England international would only get a place in his team if other players were unavailable.
However, Jones has played seven times since November 6 with United conceding just five times during that period, and Mourinho has acknowledged that he has been left pleasantly surprised by the former Blackburn Rovers man.
The 53-year-old told reporters: "I am surprised, because even with me he had injuries that stopped him for a long time. He was recovering first with the people he trusted in medical department. Then for about three weeks before he joined us he worked with my physio.
"There was a big improvement in condition. Now he looks fresh, sharp, fast, agile and played six matches without a problem.
"I don't remember when he did that. Marcos Rojo was also having lots of injuries. He is also free. Without Bailly and Smalling people could be scared but they stepped up. Six without defeat. Really solid. I am happy for them."
Jones has made a total of just 148 appearances during his five-and-a-half year spell at the club.
Darren Plant
