However the 2011/12 season pans out for United, Phil Jones can reflect on a successful maiden campaign at Old Trafford. Having ar…

However the 2011/12 season pans out for United, Phil Jones can reflect on a successful maiden campaign at Old Trafford.

Having arrived from Blackburn Rovers last summer, the versatile defender was expected to gradually learn his trade with the Reds. Instead, he became one of the top appearance makers in the champions' title defence.

"It's gone really well," admits Jones. "If anyone had told me at the start of the season I would have made 40 appearances for Manchester United I would have snapped their hands off. It's incredible. I didn't expect it this season."

Though his rise to first team prominence has seemingly been on fast-forward, Jones feels that he has always been equipped to step up to life in the upper echelons of the Premier League.

"It was relatively easy to adjust because at Blackburn I always saw myself as a player who likes to get the ball down and play," he said. "That is what United love to do, get the ball down and play.

"There is definitely an element of personal intimidation. You always raise the question to yourself. You wonder: 'Am I good enough to be here?' But the manager has shown faith in me and the players have also helped me and made me feel so welcome."

Jones revels with the Reds

10TH MAY 2012

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