Manchester United’s U18s have achieved a remarkable feat by securing a league and cup double, with Phil Jones contributing significantly to their success. The young Red Devils had already secured the Premier League North title last week with a victory at Wolves, having gone unbeaten in the league until March when neighbors City ended that incredible run. However, their season got even better as United claimed revenge on City to lift the Premier League Cup at Leigh Sports Village with a 2-1 win in front of Wayne Rooney.
Club officials, including Head of the Academy Nick Cox, U18s coach Adam Lawrence, and U21 boss Travis Binnion, have received praise for their role in transforming United’s academy. Former England international Phil Jones, who retired last summer after 12 years at Old Trafford due to persistent injuries, has also played a part in the U18s’ success. Jones, who was part of United’s last Premier League title-winning side, has been back on the training pitch at United as part of the U18s’ coaching staff this term, imparting his knowledge and experience to the young players.
Jones spent 12 years at Old Trafford since Sir Alex Ferguson signed him from Blackburn in 2011. He was plagued by injuries in his final years, making just five appearances since the start of the 2020/21 season until hanging up his boots. Jones made 229 appearances for Man Utd, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and Europa League. He also racked up 27 caps for England between 2011 and 2018. Jones turned down a testimonial, explaining that he did so because ‘there’d be only my mum and dad who would turn up’.
