Phil Jones focused on new Euro campaign with England

Thursday 26 Jun 2014
Phil Jones charges forward against Costa Rica in Tuesday's game in Belo Horizonte

Phil Jones says England need to "regroup and push on again" after returning home early from the World Cup in Brazil.

The Three Lions squad landed back on home soil on Wednesday afternoon, with their exit at the group stage still raw for players and staff alike.

But with the Euro 2016 qualifiers starting up in early September, the Manchester United defender believes it’s now time to focus on the future with a number of the squad’s younger players emerging.

England

Jones played at right-back in the game with Costa Rica

 

"The clear positives are the young lads who have come through, the likes of Luke [Shaw], Raheem [Sterling] and Ross [Barkley]," said Jones.

"Luke and Ross today were really good against Costa Rica and Raheem has been terrific through the tournament, I thought.

"No matter what people say, the future is bright but it is difficult for people to see that now."

Jones’ first taste of the World Cup came with a place in the starting line-up against Costa Rica in England’s last match in Group B, where he played at right-back.

And he now wants to prove himself again on the domestic stage under new boss Louis Van Gaal at Old Trafford before settling into a regular spot in the England team as the target turns towards qualification for France ’16.

"I would like to go back to the club and cement a regular place," explained the 22-year-old.

"I have said in the past few years that sometimes it doesn't really affect me but it is nice to cement a regular place. Hopefully I can do that.

"You have seen me play centre-back, right-back and the holding role in midfield. Obviously I think I am an out and out defender.

"But I say it every week I am happy to play anywhere for the Manchester United. That is for the manager to decide."

By Nicholas Veevers Content Manager - FA Owned Channels