‘It’s been difficult’ - Phil Jones sends emotion farewell to Man Utd fans as he announces departure

Phil Jones has spoken of his struggles in recent years as he announced his departure from Manchester United.

The defender, who joined the Red Devils from Blackburn Rovers in 2011, is set to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season. Jones has struggled with injuries in the last few years and has made just five senior appearances in the last three seasons as a a result.

The 31-year-old said he has ‘worked tirelessly’ in his efforts to get back to full fitness. "It’s been very difficult, the last couple of years,” he told the club’s website.

“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.

"And, you know, I’ve missed playing football. I missed it. You grow up playing football and all you want to do is play football. It’s all I’ve known, from such a young age, is to do what you love doing for a living. I’ve been fortunate enough to do that, albeit not as much as I would have liked.”

After 722 days out, Jones was selected to play against Wolverhampton Wanderers last season due to a shortage of United centre-backs. The ex-England international played well in the 1-0 defeat and described it as his ‘highlight’ over recent years.

"I’ve worked tirelessly hard," he said. "I literally left no stone unturned. I tried to get back as quick as I could, every time I was out in the last couple of years. I think the highlight for me would have to be the Wolves game [his return from injury last season], when I came back. That was just a moment that I’ll never forget. It gives me goosebumps now, thinking about it. I mean I worked so, so hard to get to that stage of fitness.”

Jones’ final appearance came for the club in a 3-0 win over Brentford last May, and he has not made a single appearance this season under Erik ten Hag. On the defender’s future plans, United added: “Our no.4 is now taking some time before deciding his next move and everybody at United would like to wish Phil the very best of luck for the future.”