Manchester United injury news: Phil Jones comes through his first 90 minutes for four months
Manchester United and England defender Phi Jones completed his first full 90 minutes since December to reignite his attempts to get back into first-team football ahead of summer's European Championships. The 24-year-old played around 80 minutes of the draw with Chelsea Under-21s last week, but came through his first full run-out unscathed in a major boost to his aspirations for the rest of the season.
Jones has not played in any capacity since January's win over Swansea City, where he lasted just 45 minutes before being withdrawn with the ankle injury that has subsequently kept him out of the last 20 matches. The former Blackburn Rovers defender produced an uncertain display against Chelsea on his return but looked more assured as United kept a clean sheet to boost their attempts to retain the Under-21 Premier League.
Despite the game coming less than 48 hours before the FA Cup quarter-final replay against West Ham United, Jones has thrust himself into contention for a competitive return at Upton Park. United's back-four was cut apart with ease against Tottenham Hotspur and United manager Louis van Gaal could look to freshen up his options and add some physicality to combat the in-form Andy Carroll.
Cameron Borthwick-Jackson could also be deployed by van Gaal after coming through his second 90 minutes in as many games. The 19-year-old picked up an undisclosed injury in United's FA Cup win over Shrewsbury Town in February but is now back in contention after two run-outs for the Under-21s. Marcos Rojo's uncertain form since his return to the team could see the England youth international handed an immediate recall.
The 1-0 win over Middlesbrough also saw United skipper Wayne Rooney make his first appearance after a lengthy knee injury, though the England captain is unlikely to be risked against West Ham and could be held back for the Premier League visit of Aston Villa. Rooney played an hour at Old Trafford before being replaced by Axel Tuanzebe.
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