Phil Jones credits Romelu Lukaku and Marcus Rashford for improved form

MANCHESTER UNITED star Phil Jones believes his fine form is due to going up against the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Marcus Rashford in training

Manchester United have enjoyed a stunning start to the new Premier League campaign, winning their first three games against West Ham, Swansea and Leicester.

Lukaku and Rashford have made the headlines for their terrific form, scoring four goals between them.

Jones, however, has gone about his job safely and surely at the back.

And the defender, who starred for England in recent World Cup qualifying wins over Malta and Slovakia, says pitting his wits against Lukaku, Rashford and Anthony Martial in training has paid dividends.

“As a defender, you want to play against the best strikers in the world,” Jones told the club’s official website.

“You want to test yourself and prove to people that you’re good enough to do that.

“Playing against these players in training every day makes me a better player. 

“It gives me a better understanding of how to deal with these types of players when they’re on the opposing team.”

Rashford struck the winner as England battled past Slovakia at Wembley last night.

The 19-year-old pounced after Tottenham’s Eric Dier had chalked off Stanislav Lobotka’s opener.

And Jones has praised his Red Devils team-mate.

“He’s a great lad off the pitch and, on it, he’s a special talent,” Jones added. “He’s already special but he’ll be a world-beater one day, he’s that good.

“He’s so quick, sharp, technically gifted, two-footed and a nightmare for defenders. 

“You’ve seen it this season already, he’s given defenders nightmares. He’s an Academy product and players from the youth system have done great over the last few years. 

“He’s a special player and we’re lucky to have him.”