Phil Jones misses Real return

  • Last Updated: March 4 2013, 20:11 GMT

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Phil Jones has lost his battle to be fit for Tuesday night's Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

Phil Jones misses Real return

Phil Jones

4. Phil Jones

Title Number
Appearances 20 (4)
Goals 0
Assists 1
Yellows 4
Reds 0
*Current Season

Jones injured his ankle in the FA Cup win over Reading a fortnight ago and has not recovered sufficiently to face Madrid in the last 16 second-leg clash at Old Trafford.

When asked about the England international, Ferguson said: "He's not fit."

The Scot admitted the loss of Jones was a blow, given the England man's performance in the first leg, but was confident it was one his side could overcome.

"His performance over there was excellent but we do have options and hopefully it is something we get right," he said.

Veteran midfielder Ryan Giggs will be involved, however, on what will be his 1,000th senior competitive appearance for club and country.

Ferguson added: "He played against QPR and I always think with Ryan that you like to keep him fresh.

"He will be involved at some point, whether starting or on the bench - I have not made my mind up but he will be involved. Of course his experience of big occasions will be vital to us."

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has confirmed goalkeeper Iker Casillas is not fit for the game.

The Spain international only returned to training on Thursday after sustaining a broken hand against Valencia on January 23 and, although he travelled with the squad, he will not be considered.

"Everyone is fit and ready to play and be considered, with the exception of Iker Casillas," Mourinho said ahead of the second leg of the last-16 tie.

Man United (from): De Gea, Lindegaard, Amos, Rafael, Smalling, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evans, Evra, Buttner, Nani, Valencia, Carrick, Cleverley, Giggs, Anderson, Young, Kagawa, Welbeck, Rooney, Hernandez, Van Persie.


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