Sir Alex Ferguson: Phil Jones can handle the pressure

Sir Alex Ferguson has said that Manchester United defender Phil Jones is capable of handling the pressure of expectation at Old Trafford.

The former Blackburn man was the subject of recent praise from England coach Fabio Capello, who compared him to Real Madrid and AC Milan legends Fernando Hierro and Franco Baresi following his performance against Sweden last week.

Furthermore, Ferguson has insisted that the 19-year-old can thrive under such expectations.

"I don't think putting pressure on him is a big worry," he said. "Not at this club. I think he'll find his own way all right.

"It's difficult to make comparisons with other players. He's a dynamic player, he's quick, he's two-footed. He's got a great attitude.

"He's got leadership qualities and that kind of thing, but he could play anywhere. It's too early to talk about captaincy. That's the kind of pressure he doesn't need. He's only 19."

Manchester United are currently in second place in the Premier League, five points behind leaders Manchester City.