Carabao Cup Final: Manchester United Defender Spotted on Punditry Duty, Fans React

• Phil Jones appeared as a pundit for the Carabao Cup final involving his own team
• The defender is still contracted as a Manchester United player, but is yet to make an appearance this season
• Fans on social media could not help but poke fun at the sight of Jones on punditry duty instead of featuring in the final
• His last appearance for United was at the 3-0 victory over Brentford in May 2022

Fans were left in hysterics on Sunday, February 23 at the sight of Phil Jones in punditry duty for the Carabao Cup final involving Manchester United and Newcastle United.

Jones was a present figure at Wembley, but it was not to represent his club on the pitch.

Some fans may not be aware, but the defender is still on contract and is technically a Manchester United player, still.

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However, a series of injures and fitness concerns have kept Jones from Erik Ten Hag’s squad, and he is yet to make an appearance this season.

The 31-year old spoke on Sky Sports where he thanks United for sticking by him through difficult spells in his career.

"At times, physically and mentally, it has been exhausting but I am a fighter, a strong character and I will do everything I can to get back out on the pitch. I want to be playing football, it is something that I love doing, so that is my aim.” He said as quoted on Manchester Evening News.

"I have had to deal with that [the mental challenges] and I think I have. I have had a good support around me, my family, friends and especially the club. The club have been absolutely fantastic with me, I can't thank them enough and I am grateful for that.

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Social media reactions

On social media, fans who witness Jones on punditry duty alongside the legendary Roy Keans resorted to hilarious banter:

“This might be the first time a contracted player is doing pre-match coverage for his own team's cup final,” One fan said.

“He’s still a current United player,. I never seen this before,” another added.

“More appearances for sky than united in the last 2 years.” Joked another fan.

“He’s acting like he’s retired, you’re still being paid by United mate,” @CRutd said.