Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hit back at Red Devils legend Rio Ferdinand for criticising one of his players.
Ferdinand stated that Phil Jones should leave the club during the current transfer window due to the numerous injuries and claims he is taking a place in the squad that could go to one of the youngsters.
Solskjaer, however, has leaped to the defence of the 29-year-old central defender, who has gone through a lot over the past year.
"I think what Rio said was out of order, completely. I know more than anyone how it feels to be injured," the United manager said, as per the Sun.
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"Phil has had a horrible 18, 19, 20 months and was troubled for a year before that with injuries.
"Phil's still not 30, but since I came here he has battled against that knee injury and put his body on the line in every training session.
"He gets his head down and is a proper professional, no fuss family man and just wants to get back fit.
"He has never done anything but give everything for the club and Rio, he should no better than to go out and say this.
"I think Rio knows. I think he feels a little bit sorry about that one.
"I was out for two years in a three-year period with a knee injury and Phil has battled valiantly I would say.
"I know how he has felt because you are embarrassed at times coming in, but he has to look after his career and now he is getting back to fitness."
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