(Reuters) - A combination of experience, composure and aggression make Phil Jones England's best defender, the national team's manager Gareth Southgate said ahead of its 2018 World Cup qualifier against Slovakia on Monday. Jones has been impressive in recent games, helping Manchester United maintain three clean sheets in the league, and the 25-year-old earned his 22nd national cap as he helped England maintain a clean sheet in Friday's 4-0 win over Malta. "Not just this season, but there was a long period in the middle of last season where I think he has been the best defender," Southgate told Sky Sports. England lead Group F with 17 points after seven games and Slovakia sit two points behind in second position. With three games remaining, a win at Wembley Stadium would all but secure England's World Cup qualification.

Source: thestar September 04, 2017 14:48 UTC