Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Phil Jones could earn a Manchester United first-team spot ahead of Rio Ferdinand or Nemanja Vidic this season.

Jones was viewed by many as a signing for the future when he finalised a £16m transfer to Old Trafford from Blackburn Rovers in June.

However, manager Ferguson is confident that the England Under-21s captain could earn himself a starting role from the outset.

"You think he might not play, but the ability he's got and the determination he's got, he could quite easily play," said Ferguson.

"There's no question about that. He's the future, obviously, but he could certainly come in right away."

As well as central defence, the 19-year-old can also play in a holding midfield role.