Ex-Manchester United centre-back Phil Jones has likened one Red Devils ace to Manchester City attacking midfielder Phil Foden after the Old Trafford outfit’s recent FA Cup elimination. But what is the identity of the mystery Manchester United player?
Phil Jones Heaps Praise on Manchester United Teenager
During a recent interaction on BBC Match of the Day 2, Jones suggested Manchester United teenager Shea Lacey’s style of play is akin to Foden, who is also a left-footed player.
“Lacey is going to be a top, top player. He’s got everything. He’s almost got the Phil Foden-esque touch and (plays like Foden in) the way he dribbles, in the way he commits players. He’s direct; he only needs half a yard to get the ball in,” Jones said.
Jones, who represented the Red Devils between 2011 and 2023, continued, “Like, when he came on against Burnley, first thing he does is commits a player and hits the crossbar. His all-round game is very good. Every time he gets the ball, he looks like he’s going to create something or make something happen.”
Lacey, who picked up a 90th-minute red card in his boyhood team’s 2-1 FA Cup third round defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion earlier on Sunday, has made three overall substitute appearances for his club. The winger, who can also play in a number 10 role, has produced 10 goals and 11 assists in 45 combined age-group games, according to Transfermarkt.
On the other hand, Foden is regarded as one of Manchester City and England’s top players. The 25-year-old has helped Manchester United’s city rivals win 17 silverware trophies, including six Premier League titles. He has scored 110 goals and provided 65 assists in 346 appearances across all competitions for the Pep Guardiola-coached outfit, according to Transfermarkt.
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Jones also opined on Lacey’s sending off against Brighton, sympathizing with the player.
“I was devastated for him when he got sent off. The first one is a foul, and it’s probably a yellow card, just. I don’t think he can have any complaints. The second one… the letter of the law states it is a second yellow card,” Jones said.
He added, “I would like to have seen (Simon Hooper) bide his time a little bit, maybe give him a warning rather than another yellow card. I thought it was harsh,” Jones said. Owing to his recent sending off, Lacey is now set to be suspended for Manchester United’s Premier League contest against Manchester City at Old Trafford on Saturday, January 17.
