Manchester United fans are becoming increasingly concerned about Phil Jones' welfare after Erik ten Hag gave a rare update on the forgotten defender's fitness.
Jones, 30, has only played five times (including just two starts) for United since the end of the 2019/20 campaign – all of those appearances coming under Ralf Rangnick in the latter part of last season – and hasn't featured in a matchday whatsoever under Ten Hag.
And the Dutchman revealed in his latest press conference before the FA Cup clash with Reading that Jones has failed to complete a single training session all season.
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The former Ajax boss was asked whether a decision had been taken on Jones' future, given that his contract is due to expire in five months.
"No, it's not been taken until now," Ten Hag replied. "The [contract] decision about that is for the summer, but for the whole season he's injured."
Asked if Jones will ever play for United again, the manager said: "I can't say.
"What I can say is that he's not available for training since the first day of training this season so I think there's not an opportunity for you to recover quickly and be available quickly."
Jones has suffered a string of serious injuries for United and Ten Hag's comments prompted a debate among fans on social media.
Amid the inevitable criticism, many United fans stood up for Jones, who has previously opened up about struggles with his mental health and dealing with the physical injuries themselves.
United fan Si Lloyd said: "I feel for Phil Jones. Nobody commenting on here knows the extent of his injury problems but it’s been clear for a long time he’s been unlucky in that respect. It’s also not his fault that, aware of his history, the club decided to give him a contract extension when they did."
Another replied: "Glad someone has said this. He’s an honest player I think that’s just been horrifically misfortune with injuries."
Jones is unavailable for United's FA Cup fourth round tie against Reading, which kicks off at Old Trafford at 8pm on Saturday.
Topics: Phil Jones, Erik Ten Hag, Manchester United
Dominic Booth