Sir Alex Ferguson is not worried about the lengthy absence that Phil Jones has had as he returns for Manchester United against Galatasaray this evening.
In pre-season Phil Jones suffered a back injury which put progress for the new season back by a few weeks, once he returned to training at Carrington he then was issued to have surgery on his knee.
Jone has now fully recovered and looking forward himself to getting back into regular first team football at United, with Sir Alex Ferguson insisting that he is not worried by the extended spell on the sidelines.
During the press conference ahead of the away leg to Galatasaray Sir Alex Ferguson said:
“It’s a big day for Phil Jones, he’s been out all season but has done enough training to make sure his fitness is okay. ”
“They’ve all been different types of injuries and because he is young, he’s still to develop physically.”
“He’s only 20 years of age so there’s plenty of time for him.”
Ferguson on the young traveling squad:
“Most of them will have experience of big games and big crowds, obviously for Nick Powell it’s completely different – he’s played in front of 76,000 as a substitute but this will be his first European away game.
“It will be a big day for him but he has the temperament, which is important.”
Manchester United left Manchester yesterday afternoon and avoided the hostile reception at Istanbul airport by being escorted through the side exit of the airport.
Manchester United captain for the trip, Darren Fletcher insisted that himself and the team will be able to cope with the hostile reaction from Galatasaray fans in Istanbul, he said:
“It’ll be hostile – the fans are really passionate, I’ve not played against Galatasaray but I’ve been to Bursaspor and Besiktas and it’s a unique atmosphere. ”
“It’s a challenge and something we have to experience. For me it’s a new stadium, a new occasion and you want to enjoy the experience. Hopefully that brings out the best in your performance.”
Sir Alex Ferguson’s press conference ahead of Galatasaray
