Jones nearing return to fitness

Manchester United defender Phil Jones could return to the Red Devils' squad ahead of this weekend's clash with Sunderland.

The England international has not featured in the league this season after complaining of stiffness in his calf after United's pre-season tour to the United States, a problem which was discovered to be the result of a blood clot in his calf.

The 23-year-old is now back in training and could feature in the squad that faces the Black Cats, but he is not yet ready for a place in the starting XI.

"I said last week that he was ready to train,” said manager Louis van Gaal. “And Friday was his first training session with the group. It's nearly done, but he's not match fit yet. It's very early."

Jones had partnered Daley Blind in the centre of the United defence in pre-season, with his position having since been taken by Chris Smalling