Phil Jones 'can be new Baresi'

17/11/2011

Phil Jones can be the new Franco Baresi for Manchester United and England, according to Fabio Capello.

Those enjoying Premier League hospitality at Old Trafford may have already been impressed by the performances of the teenager since his arrival from Blackburn in the summer and the England coach has added to the praise.

Likening him to the legendary Italian defender and Spain's Fernando Hierro - players he managed while at AC Milan and Real Madrid respectively - Capello said: "They were great players, who could play as a midfielder but also at centre-back.

"Phil can play in different positions but always at the top level. This shows what he has - he is a talent."

Jones impressed in midfield against Spain and Sweden after making his first England appearances at right-back.

Manchester United's next Premier league game at home is against Newcastle on November 26th.

Another United player returning from international duty in good spirits is Nani, who scored for Portugal in their 6-2 European Championship play-off win over Bosnia-Herzegovina.

By Ted Walker