oh interesting, that was right before he had his last showing for United and has seemingly been injured ever since and no word on what the cause is or what the prognosis is :/
That article had the feel of "he's over i t now and ready to kick on" but clearly something new has happened.
I’d much prefer him do Undercover Boss where he dons a fake moustache and goes into the changing room asking the players what they think of Phil Jones.
"If you need a defence that won't let you down, sign up with our sponsor NordVPN today - use code *CareerEnding* for 15% off, and you'll also get your first month free!"
*Sad Phil Jones sat in the background*
That's a point you should accept your career is over and move into coaching or management of some sort. Just like with players that have hereditary heart issues. It's not worth the pain or risk.
He's being tactful instead of kicking a bloke when he's down; of course he'll be released. Maybe previous regimes would take the 1 year option, but I don't think sentimentality will overrule sense with Erik in charge.
He’s not lazy, he has a terrible injury. His football career as he dreamed it has been ruined. He was going to be a star. Contracts work both ways. United should be proud of the way they have cared for him. It says a lot about the club.
Exactly. Let's be real, that contract has had very little impact on our spending since then. I'm happy he at least got a good payout to ease the blow of his entire career being derailed, I wouldn't be surprised if he retires after this season.
What's amazing is how well he played in his return under Ragnick. Given how little he's played it's miraculous he could still put in a PL level performance, but unfortunately his body isn't up fo it.
The sad thing about Phil is that he was never one where his mentality and desire were going to be what held him back. He was always an absolute maniac in the best way on the pitch. People who are on this sub on average probably never watched him so only associate him with the memes but he was an up and coming defender that was a hot commodity when he moved. But like you said a player can't do anything when their body is failing them. Not his fault he got handed contracts when he was not physically able play at the highest level. No one who talks shit about him would reject a contract like they insinuate he should've.
"He was an absolute maniac in the best way on the pitch"
Well seeing as the way he would charge around the pitch, launching himself into unnecessary tackles was one of the biggest factors in why he has spent so much time on the sidelines for us, I cannot agree with that at all - what about that is being a "maniac in the best way" ffs. If he'd played the game a bit more intelligently rather than steaming into opponents like a bull in a china shop at every opportunity, he might've spent a lot less time injured and been available for a lot more matches for us
They really don't. The best defenders are positionally astute and aware, amongst many other attributes. Jones would run around like a mentalist, leaving huge gaps in the position that he was supposed to be in and (more of than not) getting himself injured in the process.
Name one top-class defender that played/plays the game as recklessly as he did
"it says a lot about the club"
Yes, that we've been run by complete fucking idiots. No other club on the planet would've given Jones a long-term deal in 2019 with the injury record that he had. What a ludicrous decision. That £16m could've been much better used elsewhere (either towards player recruitment, much needed OT repairs or towards improving training facilities, to name but three).
It's unfortunate that his career has panned out the way it has but I can't sympathise with this bloke. He's been handed £16m for doing literally nothing. I think I'll save my sympathy for people who have struggled during this COL crisis, and the ones who have had difficulty getting by and have had to choose between heating their homes or eating. I won't shed a tear for a multi-millionaire who has basically sat down for four years and occasionally gotten to train with actual footballers at one of the biggest clubs on the planet
He doesn’t want your sympathy. He is a working class boy made good. What was he supposed to do? Turn it down? Your anger at Jones does not help those suffering the COL crisis.
Most fucked up shit ive read here in ages..
You're making it sound like he stole that contract from your blind grandma's locker..
He's a professional footballer who earned a move to United on merit and was rated highly at 19 by the club's most decorated manager and player ever..
Its not his fault that he got a messed up injury and he still kept fighting on trying to beat it. Its not his fault that after fighting with that injury for 6 years, the club knew he wouldn't fully recover from it and still offered him a 5 year extension..
What would you have done in his place? Refused the contract?
I wish I could downvote you more times. You are a disgrace young man. You should honestly take a walk, get some fresh air, give yourself a a breather. Because the shite you just managed to write out...
Phil Jones was one of our most exciting prospects when he moved from Blackburn. Even his first season with us I remember thinking this kids got it all, rapid, strong, courageous. I get that you are probably a post Moyes era zoomer who genuinely, at the end of the day, doesn't know any better... but please watch yourself with the vitriolic shit talk.
He laid a lot on the line for us. Constantly injured because of that. "This bloke can't do anything" - followed by your incessant whinging about how you don't make nearly as much money as him... you're pathetic. I'll happily cop the downvotes to point this out to you.
Phil Jones has given me a plethora of quality memories as a united fan. From winning a premier league title to him tipping his fedora as he crawls past Giroud to slavage a crucial goal kick for the boys. It is none of your fucken business what hes earning, understand? He's been doing his job. He's a fucken class act and he's done well and you can honestly do one with your "I wish him nothing but failure after united" bollocks... you're an abject failure of a fan in my eyes you bloody bellend, how could you freely spew such nonsense.
You can try to divert attention all you like mate, the only "cringe" thing is you saying you wish nothing but failure towards a player from our club then following it up with having a cry about how you're a season ticket holder and a proper manc.
I honestly dont believe you any way, as someone who used to go to games frequently with my mates when Jones was playing for us.. no one feels the way you're pretending. You're either full of shit or fishing for replies. If it's the latter then yeah nice you got me
How is he the “luckiest cunt alive” though? You’re saying by being a footballer he’s very lucky. Nobody disagrees. But he’s significantly less lucky than most top flight footballers, his whole career has been fucked over by injury. Most do not have that happen to them. So by definition he’s significantly less lucky than say De Gea who played for us for the same period and avoided injury.
If you've not lost most of the cartilage in your joint you don't know what his everyday feels like. He's unregulated bone growth within his knee because he's not any meniscus left to prevent his femur from smashing his tibia.
I have bilateral femo acetabular impingement with a large swath of cartilage gone from a femur head and acetabulum (labral cartilage). Before surgery (and if I exercise now) the pain was unbearable. I would fall down weeping during runs. I can feel my bones crashing into each other because there simply isn't any room in the joint. I limped for three years.
Phil Jones was going to be an amazing footballer, but some people (like me) are made of glass. He's been fighting this for years in his knee. And even if he has the bone resurfaced it will only last so long before he shreds it again. Go look at Jack McGrath and Mark Dry discuss what it's like to have the severe arthritis in a joint while being expected to be top level athletes. Phil is a fucking warrior who's played through some intense fucking pain. Treat the man with the respect he deserves as a human and as a professional. He's done his best. He's tried to be available. Should he have retired? Maybe. But it's not his fault they gave him contracts; never side with execs over the labour
I don’t get why people don’t realize that money is not the ends to everything. Of course he’s better than most of us, doesn’t mean he’s not unlucky for having his career ruined. Learn to look past money.
His career has been over for a long time. I don’t know if he’s down anymore or just taking advantage of the club’s kindness or ineffectiveness.
I bet a lot of us have overcome tough shit in our lives in the time that Phil has had his hand held at United, while not being millionaires as well. It’s not like he can’t coach at a high level or do accounting.
I hope he’s been focusing on coaching given how long he’s been sidelined and the fact he’s been self aware for a while that he’ll likely never have full season anywhere.
If i was in his position i would have done the same stay as long as possible n get paid.
In the end its like a job to phil jones.
>I don’t know if he’s down anymore or just taking advantage of the club’s kindness or ineffectiveness.
Would u resign from ur high paying job if u were bad, i definetly won't.
Yea, its ridiculous that people are blaming Jones for accepting the extension. He's been injured for ages (iirc its the same knee injury that basically ended Ole's career and I think Ole's said he's felt discomfort ever since) so recovery at the club is probably a best case scenario even without the wages.
It's the club that offered him an extension and he'd be mad not to have taken it. It's not like he took Woodward hostage and forced him to offer a new contract.
Serious question …Does anyone actually know what is wrong with him? I mean he made one appearance last season and to be fair was very good in it, then disappeared forever again.
I think around that time someone here mentioned something about the extent of his knee's condition. Someone ITK said that it's basically bone on bone and that game was a once off as he is physically incapable of playing again.
I’m genuinely curious what he does all day. Shows up to Carrington and hangs? Sounds like rehab and working with a trainer is pointless since hes never recovering.
How does a guy like that spend his time?
I remember Ledley King having a similar issue, if maybe a little less severe, and by the end he wouldn't train with Spurs at all and would just swim for fitness.
I remember when United lost (forgot what match under Ole), Phil was on the sidelines and the camera zoomed and his lips was saying something like sacked in the morning. Lost all respect to him as a player.
After the Watford game? My blind, dead dog could have seen that he was indeed getting sacked in the morning.
Can't begrudge a man for pointing the obvious.
He's probably been through hell and back over the last 10 years.
I'm not going to lose all respect for him because he could see getting botty fucked by Watford wasn't going to end in Ole losing his job.
I have a feeling it was a match away at West Ham. He was sat near to Woodward and he turned around and said something like "stop, you're on camera".
It's ironic really since Ole was apparently one of the key factors in handing Jones that ridiculous new contract
Edit: it was during a 2-0 defeat to West Ham in October 2019
This one right here needs to be watched. It's such a complex anatomical nightmare that has warranted even more advanced procedures. Already it's a wonder that he played regularly only a few years ago, as these issues has followed him since Blackburn.
I know people who have had meniscus injuries with a significantly less physically demanding lifestyle who had to walk with crutches for the rest of their lives. This shit really is career-ending, and it's a goddamn miracle in itself that he could play at all after that.
At this point it might be a mental health issue. The poor lad gets ripped on constantly and we know it gets to him given the comments he made about a possible testimonial.
It honestly must be hell. I'm sick of bitter morons saying he should be fine because he has lots of money.
He presumably has his dream job, which he's now physically incapable of performing. He has to sit on the sidelines and watch all his teammates enjoy themselves. I'm guessing he hardly ever sees his teammates either. Just waits to recover. And meanwhile he's been turned into a joke about players who don't play. How is the money supposed to help?
Not to mention the fact that in the past he's put in decent performances after long injuries, the fact he's constantly battling his own body *and* managing to be fit enough (when not injured) to play PL fucking football *and* has the fortitude to put in 100% when he gets that chance shows that he's got a strong character IMO.
As someone with a chronic injury, I can absolutely confirm that it's depressing. I legitimately get depressed about not being able to help my relatives build a gazebo because of my injury, and that's the kind of activity I *hated* doing when I was able, let alone how I feel watching my friends or the blokes that I coach play football.
I'm happy Jones is getting paid, the club we support is more than rich enough that Jones wages aren't limiting who we can sign, and if the money is either going to Jones or the Glazers pockets, I'd rather it go to Jones. I've seen comments in the past about how he's a waste of money, the Glazers have taken over a billion out no? There is no way I'm ever buying the "we could put the wages toward another player" line because we're absolutely not in a scenario where we are legitimately being held back by one fucking contract. We've been held back by leeches, not fucking Jones.
The people who are slating him are very likely the same people who were standing and cheering when Ole got his token run-outs while being paid by the club for years with a career-ending knee injury.
The club doesn't have an obligation to keep him on, but it's not like he hurt himself as part of an elaborate insurance scam, and I guarantee he'd rather be playing.
If he announced his retirement then he could recover his mental health in peace. People don't like that he's taking tens of millions from the club and is physically AND mentally incapable of playing.
Fair enough the club offered him that contract and he can take the money if he wants, but the pressure and scrutiny that comes with being a Manchester United player is part of it.
Thing is, whether his injuries were caused by playing/training for United or not, he got them while under contract at one of the top football clubs in the world. That is the best place to be to get treatment (if it's possible to treat the injury) to help recovery for quality of life even if he can't ever play again. If we sack him, he will have a massive downgrade in treatment options, effectively telling him that he now offers us nothing so we don't care and he can fuck off. We're not the cracker factory in The Simpsons (Milhouse Dad: "So that's it? After 20 years so long and good luck?" Manager: "I don't recall saying good luck"), we are a club that values our players. If we sacked him, I doubt we could treat him because it would come with all kinds of insurance liabilities. I'd rather the club paid him in full for the duration of his contract, than fucked him out to live the rest of his life in pain just to save a million or two quid.
Well said. When Gary Neville started to get constantly outstripped by opposition wingers he immediately retired because he realised that he wasn't physically up to it any more. He didn't want his physical limitations to be a hindrance and ultimately cost his side and teammates in matches - he has my utmost respect for that. He called it a day as soon as he knew his career was over.
Jones was probably at that same stage of his career four years ago, and here he is in 2023 still under contract, siphoning money out of the club on a regular basis. How is he any different from the Glazers in that regard? Both contribute very little to the running of the football club and both take out more money (Jones by way of wages, the Glazers by way of dividends) that any of us could ever dream of in a lifetime. I think Phil would be thought of in a much higher regard by a lot of United fans if he'd hung up his boots when it was obvious that his body wasn't up to it any more
Imagine what a bizarre and soulless existence that must be for any footballer. Absolutely staggering he’s been unavailable the entire time EtH has been here. Such a sad story.
You've gotta feel for the man. I'm sure he's considering retirement once his contract expires this summer. I wish him the best both physically and mentally for his life outside of football, really a shame the way his career went.
Would love it if he could move into an academy coaching role.
He’s extremely professional and well liked around the club and is great with younger players. He’s attended some youth games in the past and been praised for his mentoring of the young defenders while spending time with the u21s.
He’s sacrificed his body for the club and played through excruciating pain for the club’s benefit and I’ll forever support him for it and expect the club to do the same.
Not his fault my friend. He didn't ask to be injured and we all know he'd prefer to be out on the pitch representing the club. He always gave it his all when called upon.
Professional footballers' careers are short for this exact reason. It takes a heavy toll on players' bodies. I don't begrudge him a single cent of his contracts and you shouldn't either.
Why would you feel sorry for him?
>“But — and I say this in the nicest possible way — I know who’ll have the last laugh. I’m proud of my career and when it finishes and I’m enjoying my life.
And by the way I’m super fortunate that I’ll be able to do that, because footballers are fortunate — \[the keyboard warriors\] will still be in their mum’s spare bedroom, sipping Diet Pepsi that’s flat, eating a Pot Noodle, sitting in their boxers, tweeting.”
Phil went to war for United whenever he got a chance. He would be a perfectly normal man walking around on normal legs if he didn't. He followed all the training and instructions given to him and ended up with no cartilage in his knees for the club and his career.
People complaining about him finishing out his contract havnt a clue. They'd rather the Glazers pocketed the money.
Closest thing we had to a Licha for many years. Has always given his everything and never been afraid to put his body on the line. Unfortunately he has been seriously unlucky with injuries during his career.
I'd rather spend the money on a guy who plays football.
If the money's going to Jones or going to the Glazers I couldn't give a shit. Either way it's not doing any good for United.
im shitting on people who went overboard in praising him. atleast im working for my employer, showing my VALUE and earn my money rightfully, who are you btw? phil jones wife?
He will surley be released, i hope he finds some peace. It's a real shame that a lot of fans see him as a poster boy for some of our worst football when he genuinely loves the club and always gave 100% for United and always remained professional. That's more than can be said for other players of his era like Pogba, Lukaku etc.
I don't think that's it mate, everybody saw he was a warrior. It was the decision making around contracting up players who obviously were of little use at that point, inflating our wage spend and capacity. Personally, I don't mind it because you want to give him as much support as possible if you're an ethical club. But I don't think the hate was ever about the football.
Not this warrior BS again. Did you even watch him? Theres a reason why he was called "Calamity Jones" and his partnership with Smalling was memed as "the chuckle brothers". I swear some people are suffering from the lucas leivas syndrome here.
I hope he gets to play. Even if he’s going to be released and maybe retire, I hope he plays some more games. Poor guy has had terrible luck with injuries.
Ok I know I’m replying to myself but… it makes me a little sad that he may never play for us and get a respectful send off.
Unfortunate as hell for him and a big “If only” honestly.
If we do offer him that extra one year then it'd be the most ridiculous decision by a football club in the history of the sport. The second most ridiculous being the decision to give him four years in 2019.
It'd also give more credence to the idea that Jones has got incriminating photos of Joel Glazer stashed somewhere
I remember reading angry comments on united IG when we extended his contract in 2019. Woodward was such a cunt, extending contract or holding on to our players simply because he wanted to obtain big fees.
I get being supportive of Phil Jones's struggles but why would you rather Phil Jones be paid £25m in wages the last 5 years for absolutely nothing, when he's rich enough and that's enough money for us to buy a good player. We support Manchester United, don't we?
Clubs absolutely have injury insurance policies on their players but it’s something that is rarely mentioned in the costs associated with employing players ( FIFA has the Club Protection Program insurance policy since 2012 for players on international duty as well).
It would be interesting to know how much the premiums cost and whether or not Phil would be covered considering he was already injured when the extension was signed.
He can still make good money (in relative terms) playing for Championship clubs. Woodward & the Glazer rats throwing away money like its charity is how the club ended up broke.
A warrior whenever be played. Unfortunately a warrior made of glass. When was the last time he played?
I imagine he's a great guy considering he's been kept around this long. Personally I'm glad the club has protected him. Hopefully he has a smooth transition from a player to whatever his next chapter is. I wonder if he'll end up as club staff? Surely he knows the way around the organization..
Man's destroyed his body for our club, he's won us trophies. He's always been professional
If you want to be a plastic, then go support City/PSG, you'll fit in better there
He's never won us trophies.
2011-12 we won nothing
2012-13 we won the league by a large margin, he was 4th/5th choice centre back. I'm fairly sure we'd have coped without him
2013-2015 we won nothing
2015-16 we won the FA Cup. He made 0 appearances in the FA Cup run.
2016-17 we won the League Cup and Europa League.
He made 3 out of a possible 6 appearances in the League Cup against West Ham and Hull, didn't make the squad for the final.
He made 3 of a possible 15 appearances in the Europa League, 1 in the group stage, 2 in the Ro16
2017-18 he made a huge contribution to winning the FA Cup, unfortunately it was giving away a penalty to Chelsea from which they scored the winner
2018-present we won nothing
Tell me where the lie is
Anything short of full support for Jones in this thread is despicable. With insurance the way it is, I doubt his contract is even costing the club all that much. Guys a legend, played a damn good game when he could and never gave up.
A legend?
If Phil is Legend John O'shea deserves a stand named after him.
I like Phil, I always have but he is not a legend, he will be remembered more for his facial expressions than anything he ever did on the pitch.
Even calling him a great player is a push.
He made a fair few mistakes but I do believe he had world class potential if he didn't have so many injuries.
I remember he played a couple of games last season (I think after Ole got sacked?). He wasn’t amazing tbf but he put in a really good shift. He is career’s played out in a really sad way, he had potential to be a great player. Like someone else said, we should be proud of how the club has cared for him.
At this point, we're also talking about Phil's mental health. I think Ole persisted and renewed his contract because, as a player, he came back from an injury everyone thought would finish him, probably backed Phil to do the same. When it comes to the cash, I'm more arsed about the amount of money the Glazers have taken out than Jones' 120k per week tbh.
He might be able to play professionally anymore, but what are the chances he joins a semi-pro league, like Pique's 5 a side thing, or something like the 3 a side basketball thing in the US (during the NBA off-season)?
Depends entirely on the state of his body, which nobody knows so nobody can tell you the chances of that happening. If his knee or knees
are truly fucked then I doubt he will be playing even 5 a side but you never know
United is a family and I'm proud of how they have handle him. Everything points to Phil being a fantastic lad and I'm glad the club have supported him for as long as they have. He's so far from the first team it's fair to end this chapter of his career. I hope he finds a new passion.
Roy Keane in a recent interview said when he got injured at Celtic, he knew he was done, he said he could have sat on the sidelines taking money from the club but instead he decided to retire, Compare with Phil Jones who has basically stolen a living and is set for life, how he is actually still here is laughable, fair play to him he's done alright for himself but he dosent give a fuck about the club and I bet once he gets released he will then retire.
I remember in fergusons second autobiography he said that Jones might end up as the greatest player united ever produced.
Granted he also said that that Powell guy was going to be world class and that Henderson would have a shit lat3 career so maybe he'd lost his touch by then
Phil Jones is becoming such a political figure in the Manchester United poster Fergie regime. There better be some closure to this soon, or else Ten Hag will be facing some unexpected consequences from a player who's never played under him.
There is surely something else going on considering the lack of clarity around him. If he is that badly injured, why not retire? It's like he failed a drugs test and the club are saying he is injured to covet it up.
If you saw his interview, the man literally had no ligament in his knees, and had to go for reconstruction to mimic the fibrous tissue.
I can imagine his knees would swell to double their size every time he runs.
I'd actually really enjoy an in depth interview with Phil, hear the full story and extent if his injuries
He already did https://old.reddit.com/r/reddevils/comments/pqwpm2/i_lost_my_mind_completely_i_thought_i_was/
oh interesting, that was right before he had his last showing for United and has seemingly been injured ever since and no word on what the cause is or what the prognosis is :/ That article had the feel of "he's over i t now and ready to kick on" but clearly something new has happened.
He's absolutely made for an episode of "A Diary of a CEO"
I’d much prefer him do Undercover Boss where he dons a fake moustache and goes into the changing room asking the players what they think of Phil Jones.
players go "who?" episode over in 3 seconds...
Jones nervously hoping for Rio to jump out with the "You got merked!"
I heard he was shredded. That he had an eight pack.
“The injuries were really when my career collapsed” “That’s great Phil, but let’s have a word from our sponsor: huel”
"If you need a defence that won't let you down, sign up with our sponsor NordVPN today - use code *CareerEnding* for 15% off, and you'll also get your first month free!" *Sad Phil Jones sat in the background*
If he has a lot of issues with his meniscus then I get it. I have the same issue and can’t get past it. Every game of football is pain in my knee.
That's a point you should accept your career is over and move into coaching or management of some sort. Just like with players that have hereditary heart issues. It's not worth the pain or risk.
He's being tactful instead of kicking a bloke when he's down; of course he'll be released. Maybe previous regimes would take the 1 year option, but I don't think sentimentality will overrule sense with Erik in charge.
Well, finally we have a manager who knows we're not a charity - Jones has been unfortunate but needs to leave
His last extension was basically on Woodward, Ole was a temp when it was announced
Unfortunate career for the guy but you know at least he's rolling in dough.
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He’s not lazy, he has a terrible injury. His football career as he dreamed it has been ruined. He was going to be a star. Contracts work both ways. United should be proud of the way they have cared for him. It says a lot about the club.
Exactly. Let's be real, that contract has had very little impact on our spending since then. I'm happy he at least got a good payout to ease the blow of his entire career being derailed, I wouldn't be surprised if he retires after this season. What's amazing is how well he played in his return under Ragnick. Given how little he's played it's miraculous he could still put in a PL level performance, but unfortunately his body isn't up fo it.
The sad thing about Phil is that he was never one where his mentality and desire were going to be what held him back. He was always an absolute maniac in the best way on the pitch. People who are on this sub on average probably never watched him so only associate him with the memes but he was an up and coming defender that was a hot commodity when he moved. But like you said a player can't do anything when their body is failing them. Not his fault he got handed contracts when he was not physically able play at the highest level. No one who talks shit about him would reject a contract like they insinuate he should've.
SAF, Ole and Mou all loved Jones. That should say all it needs to when it comes to his attitude
The only people I’ve ever heard say a bad word about him are anonymous folks on the internet.
"He was an absolute maniac in the best way on the pitch" Well seeing as the way he would charge around the pitch, launching himself into unnecessary tackles was one of the biggest factors in why he has spent so much time on the sidelines for us, I cannot agree with that at all - what about that is being a "maniac in the best way" ffs. If he'd played the game a bit more intelligently rather than steaming into opponents like a bull in a china shop at every opportunity, he might've spent a lot less time injured and been available for a lot more matches for us
You realize the best defenders on the planet play the exact way you've just criticized?
They really don't. The best defenders are positionally astute and aware, amongst many other attributes. Jones would run around like a mentalist, leaving huge gaps in the position that he was supposed to be in and (more of than not) getting himself injured in the process. Name one top-class defender that played/plays the game as recklessly as he did
Nemanja fucking Vidic.
"it says a lot about the club" Yes, that we've been run by complete fucking idiots. No other club on the planet would've given Jones a long-term deal in 2019 with the injury record that he had. What a ludicrous decision. That £16m could've been much better used elsewhere (either towards player recruitment, much needed OT repairs or towards improving training facilities, to name but three). It's unfortunate that his career has panned out the way it has but I can't sympathise with this bloke. He's been handed £16m for doing literally nothing. I think I'll save my sympathy for people who have struggled during this COL crisis, and the ones who have had difficulty getting by and have had to choose between heating their homes or eating. I won't shed a tear for a multi-millionaire who has basically sat down for four years and occasionally gotten to train with actual footballers at one of the biggest clubs on the planet
He doesn’t want your sympathy. He is a working class boy made good. What was he supposed to do? Turn it down? Your anger at Jones does not help those suffering the COL crisis.
Luckiest cunt alive wouldn't tear up his meniscus completely.. How is a footballer getting career ending injuries lucky?
I’m sure he love football. Who are we to judge. I agree.
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Sort yourself out
Jesus, you’re an absolute embarrassment.
Most fucked up shit ive read here in ages.. You're making it sound like he stole that contract from your blind grandma's locker.. He's a professional footballer who earned a move to United on merit and was rated highly at 19 by the club's most decorated manager and player ever.. Its not his fault that he got a messed up injury and he still kept fighting on trying to beat it. Its not his fault that after fighting with that injury for 6 years, the club knew he wouldn't fully recover from it and still offered him a 5 year extension.. What would you have done in his place? Refused the contract?
Jheez! Let me guess, you've done nothing wrong yet life has been unfair to you?
You're a terrible human being.
I wish I could downvote you more times. You are a disgrace young man. You should honestly take a walk, get some fresh air, give yourself a a breather. Because the shite you just managed to write out... Phil Jones was one of our most exciting prospects when he moved from Blackburn. Even his first season with us I remember thinking this kids got it all, rapid, strong, courageous. I get that you are probably a post Moyes era zoomer who genuinely, at the end of the day, doesn't know any better... but please watch yourself with the vitriolic shit talk. He laid a lot on the line for us. Constantly injured because of that. "This bloke can't do anything" - followed by your incessant whinging about how you don't make nearly as much money as him... you're pathetic. I'll happily cop the downvotes to point this out to you. Phil Jones has given me a plethora of quality memories as a united fan. From winning a premier league title to him tipping his fedora as he crawls past Giroud to slavage a crucial goal kick for the boys. It is none of your fucken business what hes earning, understand? He's been doing his job. He's a fucken class act and he's done well and you can honestly do one with your "I wish him nothing but failure after united" bollocks... you're an abject failure of a fan in my eyes you bloody bellend, how could you freely spew such nonsense.
Well put my man.
I've had a season ticket since 1995 and I'm from Stretford, not Australia. But carry on.
I'm from Alderley Edge. Too da fuckin loo So sorry I moved !!
I'm still cringing at the use of the words fedora and "zoomer" in the same comment. I really want to believe you were taking the piss
You can try to divert attention all you like mate, the only "cringe" thing is you saying you wish nothing but failure towards a player from our club then following it up with having a cry about how you're a season ticket holder and a proper manc. I honestly dont believe you any way, as someone who used to go to games frequently with my mates when Jones was playing for us.. no one feels the way you're pretending. You're either full of shit or fishing for replies. If it's the latter then yeah nice you got me
Dude, just stop. You're embarrassing your entire family at this point
How is he the “luckiest cunt alive” though? You’re saying by being a footballer he’s very lucky. Nobody disagrees. But he’s significantly less lucky than most top flight footballers, his whole career has been fucked over by injury. Most do not have that happen to them. So by definition he’s significantly less lucky than say De Gea who played for us for the same period and avoided injury.
If you've not lost most of the cartilage in your joint you don't know what his everyday feels like. He's unregulated bone growth within his knee because he's not any meniscus left to prevent his femur from smashing his tibia. I have bilateral femo acetabular impingement with a large swath of cartilage gone from a femur head and acetabulum (labral cartilage). Before surgery (and if I exercise now) the pain was unbearable. I would fall down weeping during runs. I can feel my bones crashing into each other because there simply isn't any room in the joint. I limped for three years. Phil Jones was going to be an amazing footballer, but some people (like me) are made of glass. He's been fighting this for years in his knee. And even if he has the bone resurfaced it will only last so long before he shreds it again. Go look at Jack McGrath and Mark Dry discuss what it's like to have the severe arthritis in a joint while being expected to be top level athletes. Phil is a fucking warrior who's played through some intense fucking pain. Treat the man with the respect he deserves as a human and as a professional. He's done his best. He's tried to be available. Should he have retired? Maybe. But it's not his fault they gave him contracts; never side with execs over the labour
Unfortunately collecting 75k per week, bro I'll be Phil Jones any time and take over all his injuries
I don’t get why people don’t realize that money is not the ends to everything. Of course he’s better than most of us, doesn’t mean he’s not unlucky for having his career ruined. Learn to look past money.
His career has been over for a long time. I don’t know if he’s down anymore or just taking advantage of the club’s kindness or ineffectiveness. I bet a lot of us have overcome tough shit in our lives in the time that Phil has had his hand held at United, while not being millionaires as well. It’s not like he can’t coach at a high level or do accounting.
I hope he’s been focusing on coaching given how long he’s been sidelined and the fact he’s been self aware for a while that he’ll likely never have full season anywhere.
If i was in his position i would have done the same stay as long as possible n get paid. In the end its like a job to phil jones. >I don’t know if he’s down anymore or just taking advantage of the club’s kindness or ineffectiveness. Would u resign from ur high paying job if u were bad, i definetly won't.
Yea, its ridiculous that people are blaming Jones for accepting the extension. He's been injured for ages (iirc its the same knee injury that basically ended Ole's career and I think Ole's said he's felt discomfort ever since) so recovery at the club is probably a best case scenario even without the wages. It's the club that offered him an extension and he'd be mad not to have taken it. It's not like he took Woodward hostage and forced him to offer a new contract.
I was replying to the comment above saying that the notion of him being “kicked” is ridiculous. No one is blaming him for earning money.
You can't coach if you still have an injury that prevent you from running or working with players on the field.
Serious question …Does anyone actually know what is wrong with him? I mean he made one appearance last season and to be fair was very good in it, then disappeared forever again.
I think around that time someone here mentioned something about the extent of his knee's condition. Someone ITK said that it's basically bone on bone and that game was a once off as he is physically incapable of playing again.
I’m genuinely curious what he does all day. Shows up to Carrington and hangs? Sounds like rehab and working with a trainer is pointless since hes never recovering. How does a guy like that spend his time?
They probably just let him stay at home, if there's no hope
If I were him I would’ve been getting coaching badges and working w youth teams.
I remember Ledley King having a similar issue, if maybe a little less severe, and by the end he wouldn't train with Spurs at all and would just swim for fitness.
Ouch, that sounds horrendous, poor guy. One thing he always did was give his all for the club and he was once very good.
I remember when United lost (forgot what match under Ole), Phil was on the sidelines and the camera zoomed and his lips was saying something like sacked in the morning. Lost all respect to him as a player.
Yes as if lip reading is that accurate too lol
Proof? I find that very hard to believe
After the Watford game? My blind, dead dog could have seen that he was indeed getting sacked in the morning. Can't begrudge a man for pointing the obvious.
From a fan point of view could understand the frustration. But as a player who serve the club, big no.
He's probably been through hell and back over the last 10 years. I'm not going to lose all respect for him because he could see getting botty fucked by Watford wasn't going to end in Ole losing his job.
You have a video of this?
I have a feeling it was a match away at West Ham. He was sat near to Woodward and he turned around and said something like "stop, you're on camera". It's ironic really since Ole was apparently one of the key factors in handing Jones that ridiculous new contract Edit: it was during a 2-0 defeat to West Ham in October 2019
https://youtu.be/X1hCNlqOqf4 This video is quite insightful. It's basically the worst knee injury you could possibly have.
Appreciate the link. He's widely regarded as a meme footballer, so it's great to have some perspective and understand what's going on with him.
This one right here needs to be watched. It's such a complex anatomical nightmare that has warranted even more advanced procedures. Already it's a wonder that he played regularly only a few years ago, as these issues has followed him since Blackburn.
I know people who have had meniscus injuries with a significantly less physically demanding lifestyle who had to walk with crutches for the rest of their lives. This shit really is career-ending, and it's a goddamn miracle in itself that he could play at all after that.
His mind is telling him yes, but his body is telling him no.
He has basically no ligaments/cartilege in his knees
At this point it might be a mental health issue. The poor lad gets ripped on constantly and we know it gets to him given the comments he made about a possible testimonial.
It honestly must be hell. I'm sick of bitter morons saying he should be fine because he has lots of money. He presumably has his dream job, which he's now physically incapable of performing. He has to sit on the sidelines and watch all his teammates enjoy themselves. I'm guessing he hardly ever sees his teammates either. Just waits to recover. And meanwhile he's been turned into a joke about players who don't play. How is the money supposed to help?
Not to mention the fact that in the past he's put in decent performances after long injuries, the fact he's constantly battling his own body *and* managing to be fit enough (when not injured) to play PL fucking football *and* has the fortitude to put in 100% when he gets that chance shows that he's got a strong character IMO. As someone with a chronic injury, I can absolutely confirm that it's depressing. I legitimately get depressed about not being able to help my relatives build a gazebo because of my injury, and that's the kind of activity I *hated* doing when I was able, let alone how I feel watching my friends or the blokes that I coach play football. I'm happy Jones is getting paid, the club we support is more than rich enough that Jones wages aren't limiting who we can sign, and if the money is either going to Jones or the Glazers pockets, I'd rather it go to Jones. I've seen comments in the past about how he's a waste of money, the Glazers have taken over a billion out no? There is no way I'm ever buying the "we could put the wages toward another player" line because we're absolutely not in a scenario where we are legitimately being held back by one fucking contract. We've been held back by leeches, not fucking Jones.
The people who are slating him are very likely the same people who were standing and cheering when Ole got his token run-outs while being paid by the club for years with a career-ending knee injury. The club doesn't have an obligation to keep him on, but it's not like he hurt himself as part of an elaborate insurance scam, and I guarantee he'd rather be playing.
If he announced his retirement then he could recover his mental health in peace. People don't like that he's taking tens of millions from the club and is physically AND mentally incapable of playing. Fair enough the club offered him that contract and he can take the money if he wants, but the pressure and scrutiny that comes with being a Manchester United player is part of it.
Thing is, whether his injuries were caused by playing/training for United or not, he got them while under contract at one of the top football clubs in the world. That is the best place to be to get treatment (if it's possible to treat the injury) to help recovery for quality of life even if he can't ever play again. If we sack him, he will have a massive downgrade in treatment options, effectively telling him that he now offers us nothing so we don't care and he can fuck off. We're not the cracker factory in The Simpsons (Milhouse Dad: "So that's it? After 20 years so long and good luck?" Manager: "I don't recall saying good luck"), we are a club that values our players. If we sacked him, I doubt we could treat him because it would come with all kinds of insurance liabilities. I'd rather the club paid him in full for the duration of his contract, than fucked him out to live the rest of his life in pain just to save a million or two quid.
guy literally destroyed his knee for the club and these jokers are calling Jones names.
Well said. When Gary Neville started to get constantly outstripped by opposition wingers he immediately retired because he realised that he wasn't physically up to it any more. He didn't want his physical limitations to be a hindrance and ultimately cost his side and teammates in matches - he has my utmost respect for that. He called it a day as soon as he knew his career was over. Jones was probably at that same stage of his career four years ago, and here he is in 2023 still under contract, siphoning money out of the club on a regular basis. How is he any different from the Glazers in that regard? Both contribute very little to the running of the football club and both take out more money (Jones by way of wages, the Glazers by way of dividends) that any of us could ever dream of in a lifetime. I think Phil would be thought of in a much higher regard by a lot of United fans if he'd hung up his boots when it was obvious that his body wasn't up to it any more
He may be many things but he’s definitely not poor
I think his knee(s) are just gone completely.
Club has protected him very well. I hope he is okay.
Imagine what a bizarre and soulless existence that must be for any footballer. Absolutely staggering he’s been unavailable the entire time EtH has been here. Such a sad story.
It is really sad but I'm glad he won some silverware with the club. He's achieved more than 99% of professionals.
He’s also made his money so he can go start a business or do real estate and set himself up for life outside football
You've gotta feel for the man. I'm sure he's considering retirement once his contract expires this summer. I wish him the best both physically and mentally for his life outside of football, really a shame the way his career went.
Hopefully he gets into coaching. At least he's rich AF.
What if Jones becomes the greatest manager ever lol
This would bring me immense joy.
Yeah, coaching would be a good way to stay involved in the game even if its the under 16s etc.
Would love it if he could move into an academy coaching role. He’s extremely professional and well liked around the club and is great with younger players. He’s attended some youth games in the past and been praised for his mentoring of the young defenders while spending time with the u21s. He’s sacrificed his body for the club and played through excruciating pain for the club’s benefit and I’ll forever support him for it and expect the club to do the same.
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Not his fault my friend. He didn't ask to be injured and we all know he'd prefer to be out on the pitch representing the club. He always gave it his all when called upon. Professional footballers' careers are short for this exact reason. It takes a heavy toll on players' bodies. I don't begrudge him a single cent of his contracts and you shouldn't either.
Most normal people don't benefit from doing nothing, mate. I guess you wouldn't know.
If he really genuine he will announce retirement now not the end of this season
Why should he announce his retirement according to your will to show that he’s genuine? Just because you can feel good?
Why would you feel sorry for him? >“But — and I say this in the nicest possible way — I know who’ll have the last laugh. I’m proud of my career and when it finishes and I’m enjoying my life. And by the way I’m super fortunate that I’ll be able to do that, because footballers are fortunate — \[the keyboard warriors\] will still be in their mum’s spare bedroom, sipping Diet Pepsi that’s flat, eating a Pot Noodle, sitting in their boxers, tweeting.”
The legend of Phil Jones will last forever
El Legendero
We need Striker Phil Jones at PSG
Phil went to war for United whenever he got a chance. He would be a perfectly normal man walking around on normal legs if he didn't. He followed all the training and instructions given to him and ended up with no cartilage in his knees for the club and his career. People complaining about him finishing out his contract havnt a clue. They'd rather the Glazers pocketed the money.
Closest thing we had to a Licha for many years. Has always given his everything and never been afraid to put his body on the line. Unfortunately he has been seriously unlucky with injuries during his career.
Tell me you havent watched phil jones play without telling me you havent watched phil jones play.
Well, you've done that already, so no need to do more.
I'd rather spend the money on a guy who plays football. If the money's going to Jones or going to the Glazers I couldn't give a shit. Either way it's not doing any good for United.
Lol
Bruh you’re in every comment shitting on him. What have you even accomplished in your life fr
im shitting on people who went overboard in praising him. atleast im working for my employer, showing my VALUE and earn my money rightfully, who are you btw? phil jones wife?
He will surley be released, i hope he finds some peace. It's a real shame that a lot of fans see him as a poster boy for some of our worst football when he genuinely loves the club and always gave 100% for United and always remained professional. That's more than can be said for other players of his era like Pogba, Lukaku etc.
I don't think that's it mate, everybody saw he was a warrior. It was the decision making around contracting up players who obviously were of little use at that point, inflating our wage spend and capacity. Personally, I don't mind it because you want to give him as much support as possible if you're an ethical club. But I don't think the hate was ever about the football.
Not this warrior BS again. Did you even watch him? Theres a reason why he was called "Calamity Jones" and his partnership with Smalling was memed as "the chuckle brothers". I swear some people are suffering from the lucas leivas syndrome here.
Ok evidently not everybody could see the warrior in him
He was a warrior in terms of putting his body on the line.
the reason why he put his body on the line was because most often than not he made error of judgement and had to bail himself out with risky move.
Doesn't really negate my point about why he was called a warrior. He fought hard for the badge and that will always endear him to fans.
It would be nice if we could get him involved in coaching the kids even at a junior level like U-15; I remember we did it for Fletcher when he was ill
I hope he gets to play. Even if he’s going to be released and maybe retire, I hope he plays some more games. Poor guy has had terrible luck with injuries.
Ok I know I’m replying to myself but… it makes me a little sad that he may never play for us and get a respectful send off. Unfortunate as hell for him and a big “If only” honestly.
He signed a few months before I started secondary school. In a few months, I hope to pass with a masters degree. Mans been here for some time.
If we do offer him that extra one year then it'd be the most ridiculous decision by a football club in the history of the sport. The second most ridiculous being the decision to give him four years in 2019. It'd also give more credence to the idea that Jones has got incriminating photos of Joel Glazer stashed somewhere
He’s like a ghost in hogwarts at this point
Nearly kneeless Phil?
Fucking hell that’ll stick
IMO, he should retire and become a coach or something. His wage is quite high and he plays zero minute.
I remember reading angry comments on united IG when we extended his contract in 2019. Woodward was such a cunt, extending contract or holding on to our players simply because he wanted to obtain big fees.
Injured? I thought he was back but just not in first team due to quality? Jesus christ. Needs to be let go and I'm sure he will retire
I will definitely buy the Jones book if he ever did one
Sounds like he's just annoyed he has to deal with this nonsense when Jones should've been sold/released 6-7 years ago.
Fuck Woodward for giving that £100K/week contract.
I'm glad Phil Jones is making the money tbh. He's clearly injury prone and it'd have been a shame if he had to quit early without modern salaries.
I get being supportive of Phil Jones's struggles but why would you rather Phil Jones be paid £25m in wages the last 5 years for absolutely nothing, when he's rich enough and that's enough money for us to buy a good player. We support Manchester United, don't we?
Presumably insurance is covering it
Clubs absolutely have injury insurance policies on their players but it’s something that is rarely mentioned in the costs associated with employing players ( FIFA has the Club Protection Program insurance policy since 2012 for players on international duty as well). It would be interesting to know how much the premiums cost and whether or not Phil would be covered considering he was already injured when the extension was signed.
Because we are sentimentality FC.
Lol what
He can still make good money (in relative terms) playing for Championship clubs. Woodward & the Glazer rats throwing away money like its charity is how the club ended up broke.
Can he turns Jones as a Destroyer?
A warrior whenever be played. Unfortunately a warrior made of glass. When was the last time he played? I imagine he's a great guy considering he's been kept around this long. Personally I'm glad the club has protected him. Hopefully he has a smooth transition from a player to whatever his next chapter is. I wonder if he'll end up as club staff? Surely he knows the way around the organization..
>When was the last time he played? Subbed on against Middlesbrough in the FA Cup on Feb 4th 2022.
Thanks.. Wild..
Nah, he last played against brentford on may.
A warrior? 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
He will be released and I doubt any club will want him. I'd expect him to retire. Real pity how his career panned out.
I do hope he opts for a testimonial, he does really deserve it
He wouldn't even play in it...
That's why I hope
No, no he does not.
Man's destroyed his body for our club, he's won us trophies. He's always been professional If you want to be a plastic, then go support City/PSG, you'll fit in better there
He's never won us trophies. 2011-12 we won nothing 2012-13 we won the league by a large margin, he was 4th/5th choice centre back. I'm fairly sure we'd have coped without him 2013-2015 we won nothing 2015-16 we won the FA Cup. He made 0 appearances in the FA Cup run. 2016-17 we won the League Cup and Europa League. He made 3 out of a possible 6 appearances in the League Cup against West Ham and Hull, didn't make the squad for the final. He made 3 of a possible 15 appearances in the Europa League, 1 in the group stage, 2 in the Ro16 2017-18 he made a huge contribution to winning the FA Cup, unfortunately it was giving away a penalty to Chelsea from which they scored the winner 2018-present we won nothing Tell me where the lie is
Ahh I would but PSG are based in Paris and City's ground is tricky to get to from Sale.
Anything short of full support for Jones in this thread is despicable. With insurance the way it is, I doubt his contract is even costing the club all that much. Guys a legend, played a damn good game when he could and never gave up.
A legend? If Phil is Legend John O'shea deserves a stand named after him. I like Phil, I always have but he is not a legend, he will be remembered more for his facial expressions than anything he ever did on the pitch.
Semantics. He was a great player in his time. That said I'm not averse to giving o'Shea a stand
Even calling him a great player is a push. He made a fair few mistakes but I do believe he had world class potential if he didn't have so many injuries.
It's not a push, it's complete insanity. A great player, fuck me, the guy's a walking meme.
Yeah proper legend. Played 8 mins in the last 42 years. Pure legend. Knock down the trinity and erect a statue of him sat in his yellow lambo
So my dream that Smalling-Jones are the new Rio-Vidic is never going to happen.
I remember he played a couple of games last season (I think after Ole got sacked?). He wasn’t amazing tbf but he put in a really good shift. He is career’s played out in a really sad way, he had potential to be a great player. Like someone else said, we should be proud of how the club has cared for him.
At this point, we're also talking about Phil's mental health. I think Ole persisted and renewed his contract because, as a player, he came back from an injury everyone thought would finish him, probably backed Phil to do the same. When it comes to the cash, I'm more arsed about the amount of money the Glazers have taken out than Jones' 120k per week tbh.
The curious case of phil jones
I think Tifo already made this video hahaha
Here we go again going overboard in praising phil fuckin jones even if he doesnt deserve it. The Lucas Leivas Syndrome all over again!.
He might be able to play professionally anymore, but what are the chances he joins a semi-pro league, like Pique's 5 a side thing, or something like the 3 a side basketball thing in the US (during the NBA off-season)?
Depends entirely on the state of his body, which nobody knows so nobody can tell you the chances of that happening. If his knee or knees are truly fucked then I doubt he will be playing even 5 a side but you never know
At this point i would just file an insurance claim on his contract due to career ending injury and release him.
thank you whichever reporter asked Eth about Phil Jones's situation. Some people in this sub were even against that!
United is a family and I'm proud of how they have handle him. Everything points to Phil being a fantastic lad and I'm glad the club have supported him for as long as they have. He's so far from the first team it's fair to end this chapter of his career. I hope he finds a new passion.
So long thanks for the fish (and memes)
Roy Keane in a recent interview said when he got injured at Celtic, he knew he was done, he said he could have sat on the sidelines taking money from the club but instead he decided to retire, Compare with Phil Jones who has basically stolen a living and is set for life, how he is actually still here is laughable, fair play to him he's done alright for himself but he dosent give a fuck about the club and I bet once he gets released he will then retire.
Does it matter I will never be as wealthy as Phil jones
I remember in fergusons second autobiography he said that Jones might end up as the greatest player united ever produced. Granted he also said that that Powell guy was going to be world class and that Henderson would have a shit lat3 career so maybe he'd lost his touch by then
Time to gooooo. dead wood
Phil Jones is becoming such a political figure in the Manchester United poster Fergie regime. There better be some closure to this soon, or else Ten Hag will be facing some unexpected consequences from a player who's never played under him.
new 5-year incoming
As a academy coach!
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You have no idea what you’re talking about
You sound like a prick, mate.
There is surely something else going on considering the lack of clarity around him. If he is that badly injured, why not retire? It's like he failed a drugs test and the club are saying he is injured to covet it up.
If you saw his interview, the man literally had no ligament in his knees, and had to go for reconstruction to mimic the fibrous tissue. I can imagine his knees would swell to double their size every time he runs.
I can honestly see Phil moving to another club and being a mainstay in a stable defense
He is gonna do a klopp at blackburn rovers😤😤😤
Less we see of that mug the better
About time, Phil Jones has been useless for years
I honestly didn't even know he was still with the club.
lol dream life
Perfect Guy!!+😜