Phil Jones is England's best defender: Gareth Southgate

Bengaluru, September 5: England manager Gareth Southgate has labelled Manchester United defender Phil Jones as best centre-back in his current line up.

Having suffered many troubles with injuries over the past couple of seasons, Jones has rejuvenated himself in the Manchester United side this season and has delivered some magnificent displays this campaign. His partnership with team mate Eric Bailly has been a hit so far as the Red Devils are yet to concede a goal in the first three matches.

His struggle with injuries had made him unavailable for the international duty regularly in recent times and last night against Slovakia he only made his eighth appearance for the Three Lions.

However, the England manager now heaped praise on the defender and stated the centre back is his best option in defence as he showed his value to the England team with his recent performance.

The 47-year-old manager told reporters: "Not just this season but there was a long period in the middle of last season where I think he has been the best defender. He's got very good composure on the ball. He's got the reading of the game, he's aggressive in his defending - which I like - and I think he has got fantastic experience, although he is still only relatively young.

"Obviously he has missed a lot of football. I remember watching him against Spain under Fabio [Capello] so we are going back quite a long way since he made his debut.

"He's had great experiences with club and country. He organises well, he competes well so I'm delighted we've been able to involve him this time and it was clear the other night [against Malta] what he brings to the team."

The Three Lions have done well in the recent outings as Southgate's men nicked out two wins out of two and lead Group F with 20 points after eight games and which all but secures England’s World Cup qualification for 2018 Russia World Cup.