Erik ten Hag has revealed that he only saw Phil Jones train for 20 minutes this season before the centre-back had his campaign cut short by injury.
On Friday morning it was confirmed that Jones – United’s current longest-serving player – would call an end to his 12 year stint at the club in summer.
The former England international has been hampered by recurring problems and has managed just five appearances for the Red Devils in the last three-and-a-half-years.
Ten Hag was questioned about the decision to release Jones once his existing contract expires in June, at his Friday pre-match press conference ahead of a weekend clash with Bournemouth.
When asked if he’d actually seen the defender train, the Dutchman explained: ‘Yes, 20 minutes, first training of the year!
Erik ten Hag (left) revealed that he only watched Phil Jones for ’20 minutes’ throughout the entire 2022-23 season
Jones confirmed that he will be leaving Man United after spending 12 years at the club
‘He has had a great career, what he achieved. Winning the Premier League, winning the FA Cup, winning Europa League, being present at two World Cups.
‘Massive career at Man United. All the credits for his career,’ the Dutch boss added.
Jones’ departure will free up space on United’s wage bill amid a summer of expected reinforcement at Old Trafford.
The 31-year-old previously stressed while working as a television pundit at United’s Carabao Cup final win over Newcastle in February that Ten Hag made him feel ‘valued’.
He leaves United as one of their most decorated players in recent seasons as a Premier League, FA Cup, Europa League, and League Cup winner.
Jones posted a heartfelt announcement confirming his exit where he stated his United journey had come to an end after making 229 appearances for the club.
Jones pictured arriving for the first day of pre-season training at Man United last summer
The centre-back (right) has seen his playing career plagued by serious injuries in recent years
Part of the lengthy social media statement read: ‘It’s been very difficult, the last couple of years. There’s no denying that. There is no hiding away from that.
‘My family have been absolutely instrumental in keeping me on the straight and narrow and keeping me focused, to try to get fit and try to play more.
Meanwhile, United face a nervous wait to see if Marcus Rashford will be available for their upcoming Premier League encounter on the south coast.
Ten Hag revealed that his top scorer for the season had enjoyed a week training with the team but reported in sick on Friday.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
