Former Manchester United cult player Phil Jones announces RETIREMENT more than TWO YEARS after playing his last game

MANCHESTER UNITED cult hero Phil Jones has announced his retirement from football.

The 32-year-old has not played since leaving Old Trafford at the end of the 2022-23 season.

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His last appearance was 12 months ago in a 3-0 win over Brentford, making it more than two years since he last touched a ball.

Jones told BBC Radio 5 Live on Saturday: “My career ended sooner than I would have liked.

“I’m a glass half full person. I got my A license and I want to get out there and challenge myself as a coach.

“I ultimately want to take charge of a team. I’m determined to make that happen.”

Jones, who has won 27 England caps, joined United from Blackburn in 2011 but has struggled with injuries throughout his career.

During his 12 years at United, Jones won the 2013 Premier League title in Sir Alex Ferguson’s final campaign as manager.

He added: “I did everything I could to get back to the game but with as much rehab as I’ve come back from, it takes a toll on you and your family.”

He took on the role of youth coach at Carrington last September after his contract expired.

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The former England star made 229 appearances for United and earned £32.5million in wages, according to Capology.

Ferguson saw him coming to the top, saying: “I think Jones is perhaps one of the best players we’ve ever had, no matter where we play him.

“At 21, he’s going to be a phenomenal player. I think he can play anywhere on the field.

“He has a huge influence, with his instinct and his reading of the game. He has an energy of his own.”

He was well known for his unusual defensive style which often made him an amusing and light-hearted figure among fans.

Fans will remember him for his bizarre facial expressions and one of the most unorthodox headers in football against Arsenal in 2015.

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