Phil Jones sends Manchester United message ahead of FA Cup final vs Man City

Outgoing Manchester United defender Phil Jones has paid tribute to the club's supporters after his departure from the club was confirmed almost a fortnight ago.

Following more than a decade at Old Trafford, Jones will officially leave United when his contract expires at the end of this month. He has not made a single appearance for the Reds all season and has started just two matches in the last three years.

The centre-back, who joined United from Blackburn Rovers back in 2011, was last seen in a training session at Carrington in May last year. He last featured for the Reds as a second-half substitute in a 3-0 win over Brentford in the club's final Premier League home game of the 2021/22 season.

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But despite becoming something a forgotten man over the last few years, Jones has been wished nothing but the very best by United players, members of staff, former manager Sir Alex Ferguson and the fans. And ahead of Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley, he has thanked the fans for their support since his exit was announced by the club on May 19.

"I want to express my thanks for the incredible love and support over the last week," Jones posted on his Twitter page. "I've known how special the United fans are, but this week has shown just how special.

"I hope you enjoy the FA Cup final, I'll be supporting the lads in the stands, backing them just as much as you."

In total, Jones made 229 appearances for United, scoring six goals and registering 10 assists. He won a total of five major honours during his Reds career, including the 2012/13 Premier League title.