Phil Jones: Ex-Man United defender line for switch to Sheffield United

Former Manchester United star Phil Jones could reportedly be on the move, with Sheffield United eager to add him to their backroom staff. Move on the cards Jones, who is currently a coach at Blackburn Rovers is facing an uncertain future at the club due to the return of Tony Mowbray. Mowbray will be given the chance to form his own coaching set-up, which leaves Jones in a precarious position. However, according to Alan Nixon on his Patreon, Sheffield United, who are undergoing internal changes of their own, are keen on offering him a way out. Coming off a disappointing 2025/26 season in which they finished in 13th place in the Championship table, the Blades are looking to bolster their ranks to ensure there is no repeat of the same. Chris Wilder’s backroom staff is heading for a shake-up. Long-time assistant Alan Knill looks set to leave Bramall Lane and there’s also uncertainty around Guilherme Ramos. Jones has been suggested as someone who could arrive and join Wilder in the dugout. United spell Jones spent 12 years at United, having arrived at the club in 2011 from Rovers for around £16.5m. At the time, he was regarded as one of the best defensive prospects in the country. However, competition for places and severe injury problems kept Jones from ever nailing down a consistent run of performances and results. The Englishman made his United debut in the Community Shield victory over Manchester United under the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson. He went on to make 229 first-team appearances for the Red Devils. Jones helped United win their last Premier League title in 2012/13. He also won the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, Europa League and three Community Shields. After his retirement in 2024, Jones transitioned into coaching. He worked with United’s academy for some time before returning to Rovers as a first-team coach. It looks like he is set to continue his coaching career at Sheffield United. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!