A crude sense of reality struck dreamy Manchester United fans on Friday, with news of Phil Jones signing a new long-term contract with the club. This new deal sees him contracted to the club until 2023 and also the opportunity to extend another year, taking him to a potential 14-year stint at the Theatre of Dreams. Surely desperate news of David De Gea’s extension, this one was not only unexpected yet shocking for fans as well.

A frustrating figure among the United faithful for his lack of consistency, the erroneous defender didn’t justify such an extension. As if Chris Smalling- who himself has often been termed deadwood- signing a new contract earlier in the season wasn’t enough.

Jones hasn’t really helped his reputation, scoring terrible own-goals at the worst possible situations and remaining a shaky figure even in his best days. The England international’s erroneous manner often leads the Red Devils into trouble and despite putting on solid performances now and then, Jones’ famous for his mistakes.

The recurring injuries issues haven’t helped his case. Jones was one of the prime examples indicated by Jose Mourinho when he pointed at some United players always being injured. Having kept two clean-sheets in 11 appearances this season, he’s often led United into deep trouble this season and hasn’t gotten rid of his shakiness even under Solskjaer.

Handing Jones a long-term deal might actually be the Norwegian’s first big mistake at United. When the club started looking on the up, Jones’ questionable contract renewal creates clouds over the Red Devils’ ambitions once again.