Manchester United have announced that Phil Jones has signed a new contract and will remain at Old Trafford until 2023.
According to an official statement from the club, there will be an option to extend Jones’ new deal by a further year.
We are pleased to announce @PhilJones4 has signed a new contract with #MUFC.
Congratulations, Phil!
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 8, 2019
Jones joined United from Blackburn in 2011 in a deal worth £17 million, as reported by BBC Sport. It was thought at the time he could build a formidable partnership with Chris Smalling as two promising English centre-backs moved to Old Trafford one year after the other.
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Sir Alex Ferguson was planning for the future probably thinking he’d leave his successor with a solid defensive duo, but both players have struggled to truly kick on.
The England international has so far made 208 appearances for United.
However, a number of Manchester United fans were surprised with the club’s decision to give Jones a new deal.
See their reactions on Twitter below.
WORST CB IN @MANUTD HISTORY!!!!!
— Harrison 🔰 (@utdharrison) February 8, 2019
Oh God 🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️🤦🏽♂️
— David Kwakye (@N_KAY_2) February 8, 2019
Banter club
— ubæ (@ubaydelapogbaa) February 8, 2019
A new 4 year deal for what exactly? How are these mediocre players still at the club, truly embarrassing. While you’re there, offer Valencia & Mata +5. Mind-blowing.
— Josh (@ManUnitedMedia) February 8, 2019
Arguably the worst defender the club has but let’s pay him more pounds whilst dishing out horrible performance and memes.
— Little Pea (@Nazygold2) February 8, 2019
This club is a meme.
— UnitedRoadman😈 (@Welcome_Kay) February 8, 2019
Hahahah this club aren’t winning the title any time soon
Both chuckle brothers have gotten new contracts— DF (@DaveFutbol) February 8, 2019
For what can’t we afford or attract new defenders why still hang around the old lads. We need fresh young defenders.
— Reinhard Baidoo (@ReinhardBaidoo) February 8, 2019
Fucking hell, bring back McNair and give him one too
— Vinay (@SemperFiUtd) February 8, 2019
I’m presuming this image is banned on Instagram 🤔 #SelfHarm pic.twitter.com/TZ8Vkd9dBO
— Zar (@Zar_RedIssue) February 8, 2019