Fergie: Jones offers more than Terry

Posted Monday, January 28, 2013 by Foxsports.com

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Phil Jones has more to offer as a player than John Terry did at the same age.

The former Blackburn defender was a significant obstacle for the visiting Fulham attackers as United ran out easy 4-1 winners at Old Trafford in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday.

It meant that the watching Rio Ferdinand, benched for the game, could enjoy a rare day off as his deputy stole the show for the night.

The 20-year-old has steadily improved since signing for the Red Devils in 2011 and has even impressed as a right-back and as a midfielder in previous matches. After the Fulham rout, Ferguson was quick to praise the defender for his improvement as a player and indicated his belief that his young charge has demonstrated a wider array of skills than Terry did as a youngster.

"Jones has got more in his locker than John [Terry]. Terry has got the experience and has become a fantastic central figure at Chelsea," Ferguson told reporters. "But as a young player, John [Terry] would be the first to admit he didn't have the pace of Phil Jones."

"Phil is a versatile boy, he can play anywhere.

"He's quick, two-footed, reads games well and is competitive. He's doing very well."

With regards to Ferdinand, the Scotsman does not think that the veteran defender will feature for England in the near future after being snubbed by national coach Roy Hodgson for the Euros. Nevertheless, Ferguson retains his confidence in the 34-year-old and feels Ferdinand would have no problem signing a one-year extension to his expiring contract.

“He’s had a great season but Roy Hogdson didn’t pick him for the Euros so I don’t see it happening.

"I don't think there is any reason why not [United shouldn't give one-year contracts]. We give players one-year contracts. There is nothing wrong with that.

"I don't think players with the reputation and ability of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand should worry about a one-year contract.

"It's not to say we doubt them in terms of longevity. When players get to their 30s you never know how they will cope with getting older.
Some do, some don't."