Rams steal Jones from Man Utd

When Billy Davies brought 22-year-old David Jones to Pride Park on loan, it was thought the move would be a chance for the talented midfielder to get some much-needed first team football and then move back to the ‘Theatre of Dreams`.

But Sir Alex Ferguson allowed the Rams to sign Jones for £1million in January, following an impressive loan spell at Pride Park, and the Rams boss was delighted and feels Sir Alex has been ‘done’ out of £4million. Since completing his permanent move to the club, the midfielder has scored four goals in 10 Championship appearances as the Rams chase promotion to the Premiership.

The lack of first team opportunities at United, with Jones appearing only four times for the United first team, Ferguson is ruing the fee he accepted for the 22-year-old.
The Rams boss has praised the player’s impact at Pride Park and revealed Ferguson’s feelings about the transfer.
“I’ve spoken to Sir Alex about Jones and he said I’ve done him out of about three or four million quid!” said Davies.
“He is a wonderful young talent and will make great strides in his career and go on to play international football for many years.

“Out of all the players I’ve worked with, I’d say he is in the top one and he will be even better next season as well.
“It’s very difficult to break into the United team as there is unbelievable competition. It’s a different ball game there and it’s hard work.
“However, we’re very glad he’s here and now he’s adding goals to his game we believe he can go very, very far.”

His impressive start at Derby has led to some debate over where Jones’ international future may lie. He has represented England under-21’s earlier in his career, but he is still eligible to play for either England or Wales, and the midfielder has revealed former Manchester United team-mate and Wales captain Ryan Giggs has tried to persuade him to commit himself to the latter. As of yet, Jones remains undecided, preferring to concentrate on his club form for the time being, and get the Rams to the Premiership.