'Start of a new journey' - Phil Jones reveals new career choice following expiration of Man Utd contract

• Jones begins football directorship course
• Defender ended 12-year United career in summer
• Also aims to complete coaching badges

WHAT HAPPENED? After a 12-year career at Old Trafford came to an end during the summer, the 31-year-old took to social media on Tuesday to update fans on his new career path. As well as continuing with coaching qualifications, Jones has enrolled in a course that may eventually see him back in football in the role of sporting director.

WHAT THEY SAID? Jones posted on X (formerly Twitter): "Start of a new journey. Great to begin the global football sport directorship course with the PFA business school, learning new things about the game, whilst also continuing to push ahead with my A licence and badges at the club that gave me so much. Excited to get started."

THE BIGGER PICTURE: The end of Jones' football career was a sad reminder of how cruel professional sport can be. Signed from Blackburn Rovers in 2011 by Sir Alex Ferguson, the defender seemed destined for a stellar career but was beset by a series of injuries that restricted him to just 13 appearances in the final four seasons.

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WHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER UNITED? Jones will no doubt be cheering on his former team-mates as they begin their defence of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford.