This is the Manchester United XI that can catch Premier League leaders Chelsea

Phil Jones

Phil Jones wasn’t a player many felt would be in the United first team this term, but several impressive displays now means that it’s a surprise when he’s not named in the starting line-up.

The England international didn’t feature at all up until November 6, where he deputised at the back in the absence of Chris Smalling and Eric Bailly in their win over Swansea.

And, after several solid performances since then, the 24-year-old has made the centre-back spot his own, and has already appeared more times in the Premier League this season than he did last time out.

With Smalling, Bailly, and Marcos Rojo all battling for the centre-back roles, Jones will have to be at his best over the coming weeks, both to keep his place, but to also help United try and reel Chelsea in.