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Phil Jones believes United will recover from their deflating loss to Southampton. Richard Sellers

Manchester United are 'comfortable' with three at the back, says Jones

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman observed what he saw as a weakness in the system.

MANCHESTER UNITED DEFENDER Phil Jones is adamant that he and his team-mates are comfortable playing with a three-man defence.

Louis van Gaal has frequently adopted a back three since taking the reins at Old Trafford in July, though fans and pundits are not completely convinced by the system, with Southampton boss Ronald Koeman identifying it as a weakness after he masterminded a 1-0 win at Old Trafford on Sunday.

But Jones insisted to the press: “I think we are comfortable playing in it. Whether we have a back four or three, we are comfortable with both.

“Sometimes maybe we play that pass in the defence that we shouldn’t but we are comfortable playing in both formations the manager has shown.

“We are still improving as a team. It’s a learning curve. It doesn’t just happen overnight. You don’t just click your fingers and you are used to playing in a new formation. It’s like anything, it takes time, but we are improving in training and we want to get better. That’s the main thing.

“Every one of us in the changing room wants to get better, to learn and that’s only good for us.”

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    Mute Cluigin Deas
    Favourite Cluigin Deas
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    Aug 1st 2023, 1:40 PM

    That’s very sad news. Jimmy was a true gentleman who suffered outrageous unnecessary abuse after that 98 semi final. He endured it with great dignity despite the suffering it caused him and his family. All the Cooneys are the salt of the earth and genuine Irish gaels to their fingertips.

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    Mute Sean Hegarty
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    Aug 1st 2023, 2:23 PM

    @Cluigin Deas: Agreed! Author could have used a better picture from his playing days.

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    Mute Paully kells
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    Aug 1st 2023, 1:22 PM

    Very sad news, deepest sympathies to a great gaa family on the loss of their beloved Jimmy.. A true Gael. RIP.

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    Mute Aidan Farrell
    Favourite Aidan Farrell
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    Aug 1st 2023, 1:56 PM

    Rest in Peace, Jimmy. An excellent referee, the man made a genuine mistake in ‘98. He was a great player and person, that’s what he’ll be remembered for and rightly so.

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    Mute Vincent Kelly
    Favourite Vincent Kelly
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    Aug 1st 2023, 3:20 PM

    Terribly sad news. Jimmy was the epitome of determination dedication and commitment. He was pivotal in making Sarsfields the successful club they are today. Never put in a poor display for club or county. Disappointing that the media have focused so much on his refereeing error, including photos of same. May God comfort his family and may his soul rest in peace.

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    Mute Joseph Anaedozie (FootballManagerGenius)
    Favourite Joseph Anaedozie (FootballManagerGenius)
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    Aug 1st 2023, 2:43 PM

    He was a True Irish GAA Legend that gave everything for Galway, he will be remembered for his heroics, Dedication and Luck both on and off the football pitch. Respect

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