• Premier League

Jones: Van Gaal philosophy will pay off

ESPN staff
September 8, 2014
Can United play with all three at once?

Phil Jones says Louis van Gaal's new 3-5-2 formation will come good despite Manchester United being without a win this season.

United followed up an opening day defeat to Swansea at Old Trafford with draws at Sunderland and Burnley, while an experimental side was humiliated 4-0 in the League Cup at MK Dons.

Phil Jones has been a regular starter at centre-back under Louis van Gaal © Getty Images
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"I personally enjoy the system," Jones told the Manchester Evening News.

"When everyone is working well together and knows what they should be doing on the pitch then it certainly works and is very difficult for teams to play against.

"The more we train and play, the more people understand their role on the pitch."

Jones picked up his 12th England cap in the 1-0 friendly win over Norway at Wembley on Wednesday and is hoping his club form can help him secure a regular place in Roy Hodgson's side.

"I hope I can play well for United and, ultimately, nailing down a starting spot [for England] is the aim for anybody that's in the squad," said Jones, who is expected to continue at centre-back in the Euro 2016 qualifier against Switzerland.

"Everybody wants to start, but you have to prove yourself first. I hope starting for United under the new manager will help me achieve that.

"I have always said I would like to play at centre-back for both club and country so, hopefully, I can do that."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
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