PHIL JONES HAS LEFT THE GROUP

Retirement led to brutal exit from United's WhatsApp and a bitterness towards football

- By John Cross

PHIL JONES felt the harsh reality when he had to leave the WhatsApp groups.

That is when it really dawned on him that his playing career for Manchester United and England had come to an end. It was so brutal at first he could not even watch a game of football.

Jones, now 33 and hoping to move into a managerial career, went to two World Cups, won a Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League during 12 injury-ravaged years at Old Trafford.

But the joy of playing and determination to win never left him and that was why it was so tough when he had to say goodbye to team-mates after finally announcing his retirement last summer.

Jones said: "Believe it or not, it was quite emotional, the most simple thing. You’ve been on the WhatsApp for years and banter and you're sending people pictures and all sorts. You press guys would have a field day!