Versatile teenager Jones is an asset to Manchester United, says Ferguson

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Phil Jones has proven his value to the Manchester United squad after only two games. 

Jones played at centre back against Chicago at the weekend before moving to right-back in the win over MLS All-Stars on Wednesday.

Versatile: Jones challenges Kyle Beckerman of MLS All-Stars 

The 19-year-old can also play in midfield and Ferguson sees him as a valuable asset to the side.

Extra cover: Chris Smalling 

‘At 19 years of age he’s very versatile,’ he said ‘He’s mobile, he’s determined and last season he played quite a few games for Blackburn in the centre of midfield.

‘We thought we’d try him at right-back. It’s something we can keep as an option for us. (Chris) Smalling has also played there two or three times now. With the experience our centre backs have, it’s a very good option for us.’

The win over MLS All-Stars kept up United’s 100 per cent record on tour and while Ferguson was pleased with the 4-0 result, he was more satisfied with the way his players are coming along from a fitness perspective.

‘The fitness is improving all the time, the games help with that, of course,’ he added. ‘We’ve had some good training sessions as well and we’ve tried to get tempo into our game and some rhythm.

‘It’s also important all the players are given as much game time as possible. This was the first time we gave the starters a good hour’s work. Saturday (against Barcelona in Washington DC) will be similar - the first XI that play will get an hour before we change it.’