Manchester United decide Phil Jones’ role after sealing Raphael Varane transfer

Raphael Varane relishing Manchester United challenge

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Manchester United plan to use Phil Jones as their fifth-choice centre-back this season, according to reports. The England international has fallen further down Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s pecking order following the recent arrival of Raphael Varane. However, despite talk of a transfer away, the stalwart now appears primed to stay put.

Manchester United had high hopes for Jones when they signed him from Blackburn Rovers a decade ago.

Sir Alex Ferguson believed the England international had the potential to reach the very top, having settled for his signing following a snub from Varane – who joined Real Madrid.

Jones has, however, struggled in the years since the Scot’s retirement back in 2013.

The 29-year-old’s injury issues has prevented him from kicking on, with the United star yet to play for the club in over a year.

There’s been talk of a potential transfer away this summer, especially after Varane’s move from Real Madrid.

But the Daily Mail say Jones is in Solskjaer’s plans for the current campaign, with the Norwegian planning to use him as the club’s fifth-choice centre-back.

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United have already lost one defender in Axel Tuanzebe, who will spend the season on loan at Dean Smith’s Aston Villa.

And, in order to avoid being left short, it seems as though they’re ready to keep Jones as a contingency.

While that’s the case, however, several players could still leave the Red Devils before the transfer window slams shut on August 31.

Jesse Lingard remains a target for West Ham, after shining during a loan spell at the London Stadium last term.

Andreas Pereira is wanted by Flamengo and Everton, with a parting of the ways with the Brazil international expected to take place.

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And Paul Pogba continues to be linked with Paris Saint-Germain, although a departure is far likelier next summer instead where he’ll be a free agent.

With Jones being United’s fifth-choice defender, Varane is primed to partner Harry Maguire on a regular basis.

And, speaking after his move to Old Trafford was recently finalised, the France international opened up on talks he had with Solskjaer beforehand.

“It was very important for me to know exactly about the philosophy and what the challenges and objectives are, and the ambitions – that was very important for me,” he said.

“And I feel a real determination and an ambition to work very hard and to try to do everything that is possible to win trophies.

“That motivates me.”

Varane also opened up on being linked with United for over a decade, while praising five club legends.

“There had been a lot of rumours and a lot of people speaking about me and Manchester United since 2011, when Sir Alex Ferguson came to my mother’s house,” he said.

“When it was real, that was when I spoke with my club, and I felt it was a real opportunity to play in the Premier League for Manchester United.

“I think it was a good moment because of a lot of things, but I think the most important one is it’s a new challenge and it’s a big motivation to start in a new league in a big club like Manchester United.

“This opportunity was amazing for me, so I chose this change for me and my family.

“They have come with me. You feel when things are a good moment and this was the right moment.

“Of course, Vidic and Ferdinand were legends. I remember players like Cristiano, Giggs and Beckham also.

“They are legends and I’m very proud to be part of this family.”

Varane could make his debut for United when they face off against Southampton on Sunday.

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