Phil Jones tips Man United star he 'hated' in training to play major role under Ruben Amorim

Phil Jones believes Amad Diallo will continue to be a key player for Manchester United under Ruben Amorim this season, having initially predicted him to make a telling impact after watching him up close.

The former defender - who left United in 2023 before retiring - has recounted how Amad was hard to deal with in training due to his pace and skills. The 22-year-old started the final two games of Ruud van Nistelrooy's four-match interim tenure - grabbing two goals and an assist in those appearance to underline his potential.

The Ivorian has started nine of his 16 outings this campaign, and has overall tallied three goals and two assists. His direct and positive play is popular among match-goers, who will hope Amad continues his momentum under new head coach Amorim.

READ MORE: Ruben Amorim takes decision with Leny Yoro at Manchester United

READ MORE: Ruben Amorim has three players who are perfect for new look system

And Jones is one of them. "Amad is a terrific player," he told The Mirror.

"I love watching him, but I hated playing against him in training. He's so quick with the ball.

"I think the game that stood out for me with Amad was the one where we played Liverpool in the FA Cup and he scored that late winner. I was there with my little girl, and I remember saying then that this guy would play a huge part next season, and I think I'm being proved right."

Jones, who has now moved into coaching, has predicted positive things for new head coach Amorim, who takes charge of his first match at Ipswich Town on Sunday afternoon. He believes the current squad has enough quality to work with for the time being.

Jones added: "They've made a change, the new manager has come in, who's young, fresh, and I think he'll have a really good understanding of the players. I think he'll come in and do a really good job.

"I'm really excited about it. I'm sure the players are, too, and it starts on Sunday against Ipswich.

"I think we've got some tremendous talent in the squad. It's about finding the balance, and getting the best out of those individual players and understanding them as people and the roles and responsibilities they're going to have within the team."

Get United transfer news and updates on WhatsApp!

Our team of Manchester United experts are on top of all the goings-on at Old Trafford for this week and beyond, and you can get the latest team news, injury updates, reaction and analysis along with inside information to your phone by joining our new free WhatsApp community. You can also join the 50,000 (and growing!) band of United fans who are following our WhatsApp Channel.

Sign up to our community here, and join our WhatsApp channel here.

--

We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.