ESPNsoccernet: England

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes defender Phil Jones "has got more in his locker" than Chelsea skipper John Terry.

Phil Jones took a kick on the calf against Everton at Old Trafford (GettyImages)

Jones, 20, has been struck down with back problems this season, but has impressed Ferguson in starting United's last three games. Indeed, the Scot believes Jones is better than Terry was at the same age.

"Jones has got more in his locker than John [Terry]. Terry has got the ­experience and has become a fantastic central figure at Chelsea," he explained.

"But as a young player, John [Terry] would be the first to admit he didn't have the pace of Phil Jones.

"Phil is a ­versatile boy, he can play anywhere. He's quick, two-footed, reads games well and is competitive. He's doing very well."

Ferguson's comments come after United progressed in the FA Cup with a convincing 4-1 victory over Fulham.