Jones Seeks Cutting Edge

Phil Jones was generally satisfied with Manchester United’s display in the goalless draw against Chelsea but says the champions will be looking for more in the final third at Liverpool on Sunday.

United were the better team in Monday night’s eagerly-anticipated encounter with Jose Mourinho’s Blues, who rarely troubled David De Gea in the home goal.

But unlike the previous week at Swansea, the Reds did not create an abundance of chances either and Jones says that’s one area to work on in the build-up to the second big clash of the week at Anfield.

The defender told ManUtd.com and PA Sport: "We wanted to win but it wasn’t to be. We played alright but we were lacking the cutting edge in the final third.

"But we’ve got the clean sheet and I thought we looked solid defensively as a unit – not just the back four but collectively it was sound and solid.

"It was probably just in the final third where we didn’t find enough. Wazza [Wayne Rooney] had a few long-range efforts and we could have had a penalty shout in the final 10 minutes for handball."

Jones, who "soldiered on" with a stiff back for 30 minutes after an aerial challenge with Ashley Cole in the first half, says the players are working well with David Moyes.

"Everything the manager says, and has had an input in, we’re taking on board," he said. "We’re responding well and enjoying it."

Liverpool have won their first two Barclays Premier League games 1-0, with Daniel Sturridge scoring both goals, and will provide a stern test as always for Moyes’ men.

"It’s going to be a big game for the players and manager but we’ll have to go there and be at our best," Jones added. "Sturridge is a cracking player and one who we’ll work on and watch out for.

"It’s never easy going to Anfield; they put you under a lot of pressure. But I’m sure if we find that cutting edge we can get three points."