Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes Phil Jones is destined for a bright future in whatever position he is asked to fill.

Ferguson claims the former Blackburn youngster has a burning desire to play football and takes on board everything he is told very quickly, making him a dream to coach.

The Scot is convinced his long-term future will be as a central defender, but he wouldn't put it passed the 21-year-old to do a good job up front in an emergency.

Ferguson has likened to Jones to former United favourite Brian McClair, who started out his career as an out-and-out forward but often featured in midfield during the latter stages of his career at Old Trafford.

Jones has primarily been used at right-back since making the switch to the current Premier League table toppers in June 2011, although the England international has also played in midfield against Tottenham, Everton, Real Madrid and Chelsea in the last three month to great effect.

His manager told Inside United: "Jones is going to be a fantastic player, his talent is unbelievable.

"You could play him anywhere. I think you could play him centre-forward! He's just that type of player, he's an animal for football. He grasps the game, he understands it. Play him right-back? Brilliant. Play him centre-midfield? No problem. Play him centre-back? Terrific.

"He's just one of those unusual players you get now and again who can play anywhere. We've not had a player like him in terms of someone who can play at that performance level since, well the closest you would get would be Brian McClair."

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