After 12 years at United, the defender departed on a free transfer last year and spent the last 12 months as a free agent tutoring the Under-18s. At thirty-two, though, he announced on Saturday on BBC Radio 5 Live that his playing days are gone.
THE LARGER PICTURE
Before injuries started to restrict his time in the Red Devils main squad, the 27-time England international joined United from Blackburn aged 19 and had one complete season as a regular starter under Sir Alex Ferguson.
He made just 18 appearances in the 2018–19 Premier League season and subsequently just two the following year. He missed the whole 2020-21 season and then barely participated the season following that.
A 15-minute appearance in a 3-0 victory against Brentford in May 2022 was his last game in professional football.
What Jones said?
On BBC Radio 5 Live he commented, “The career concluded shorter than what I would have preferred.” “It was disappointing clearly, but at the minute glass half-full outlook on it is simple to look at.
Last season, I finished my A-licence and worked with the 18s a little bit—a very excellent, worthwhile experience.
I had fun doing it. Eventually, I want to get back out there and push myself. I see myself entering coaching and ultimately running a team.
I am resolved to reach there and know the steps to get there; I am ready to take that.”
