“I think he’s been the best” – International boss has big praise for Man United star

England national team boss Gareth Southgate has heaped praise on one of Jose Mourinho’s defenders during the international break.

The Red Devils are currently enjoying compliments from all sorts of angles following a blistering start to the 2017/18 Premier League campaign.

Phil Jones is one of the players working on redeeming his form after being troubled by injuries over the past three to four seasons.

The 25-year-old was handed a start by Southgate as England thrashed Malta 4-0 on Friday in a World Cup qualifier.

And for the Three Lions’ boss, Jones is growing into one of the best defenders available to him.

“Not just this season, in terms of when I’ve been looking at him, but there was a long period last season where I think he’s been the best defender.” Southgate said

“He’s got very good composure on the ball, he’s got the pace and the reading of the game, he’s aggressive in his defending, which I like, and I think he’s got fantastic experience although he’s still only relatively young.

“He organises well, he competes well, so I’m delighted that we’ve been able to involve him this time and it was clear the other night [against Malta] what he brings to the team.”