After 11 seasons at Manchester United, Phil Jones leaves as something of a cult hero on social media thanks to his quite incredible expressions while he plays football.
The centre-back joined United from Blackburn back in 2011 in a £16.5million move, quickly became an England international and has also won the Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League.
A bright start quickly derailed, however. Injuries would severely restrict his game time and, despite his best efforts over the years, his body has simply not allowed him to sustain a comeback. He will finally leave Old Trafford after 12 years at the end of the 2022-23 season.
Jones' appearances reduced season upon season, with the former prospect becoming somewhat of a laughing stock for his lacking availability and expressions of yesteryear. One thing you can't do, though, is criticise his efforts. One last attempt at a comeback occurred in 2021-22, Jones returning to the starting XI against Wolves and putting in a respectable shift with United in crisis, but that would prove to be his swansong.
Whatever happens next, Jones will always have those successful early years at United to look back on as well as the distinction of having played well over 200 games for one of the world's biggest clubs, always giving every little ounce of enthusiasm, energy and emotion he possessed.
Following confirmation that he would leave the club, he penned an open letter to fans, reading: “To wear this shirt just once, to wear this badge and represent everyone associated with it, was an honour.
“I wish I could have played more. I wish I could have given more to the many squads I played alongside. I will say, from the bottom of my heart, I did everything I could. I did everything the medical team asked of me… I lived a dream at the biggest club in the world. I played for England in major tournaments. At United, I won trophies, most notably the Premier League under Sir Alex, in his final season.”
Still, playing football at the highest level is never easy, and Jones knows that more than most. Watching Jones' face while he lined up in central defence for United was always a testament to that fact.
You certainly get to witness the whole range of emotions when watching Jones playing, and we've picked out some of the finest examples.
Excitement
Like a kid looking at the cinema pick 'n' mix.
Indignation
Four. Not sure what of. But four.
Desolation
We've all been there, Phil.
Exhilaration
This is us when we're told it's pizza for tea.
Determination
A genuinely iconic Premier League moment. Pure grit and resolve.
Vexation
This is us when we're told pizza for tea was just a joke.
And finally… the classic
Peak Phil Jones.
