Sir Alex Voices Concern Over Jones Ahead Of Madrid Game

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that Phil Jones is an injury concern for the second leg of Manchester United’s clash with Real Madrid.

The England international, who celebrates his 21st birthday today, went off in the first half of Monday’s FA Cup tie with Reading after injuring his ankle in a 50-50 with Jobi McAnuff.

Jones was an integral part of United’s effort in Madrid, marauding around the pitch snuffing out danger, so his absence will come as a big loss to United in the event he misses the game.

Speaking at a rearranged press conference this morning, Sir Alex said:

“Phil Jones is the one we’re concerned about for the Real Madrid game, we’re working hard on it and I’d say he has an outside chance – no more than that.

“We’ll have to wait and see if he’s fit for the second leg. It’s two weeks away. A lot can happen.

“He’s an outside chance, that’s all.

“Other than that, everybody’s fit.”

Sir Alex also spoke on this weekend’s QPR game and the title race, saying he expects City to drop more points this season, so it’s up to his side to get the job done:

“We have a problem picking teams at the moment but that’s where we want to be.

“QPR are fighting for survival and we know it’s going to be a hard game. That’s what we need – we need to make sure we do our job right.

“The fact is, City will drop points too. That’s where we are, coming into the run-in. We expect to drop a few points but so will they.

“To be honest, it’s always a hard run-in in the Premier League.

“With the right attitude and the right players we have a chance.”