Inside Track: Jones almost passes Tevez test, and why we should all be thankful for Toure's latest mega-deal
By MARTIN KEOWN
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Playing against Carlos Tevez was a big test for Phil Jones, although the three times they had met before last night, the Argentine had not found the net.
Jones looked comfortable generally, making a solid tackle that he should have won from a cross in the first half. He played a big role in United’s equaliser as well.
On the big stage: Playing against Carlos Tevez (left) was a big test for United defender Phil Jones
Roaring away: Jones' header led to Vincent Kompany's own goal, handing United an equaliser
He was a bit too tight to Tevez overall, though, for my liking. Against Tevez, there is no point in trying to get tight and pinch the ball — he is too good.
Jones wasn’t quite as composed on the ball as his fellow centre back Rio Ferdinand either. He looked like he was trying to do everything quickly, so he didn’t make mistakes.
Robin van Persie may not have scored as many goals of late as he did in the earlier part of the season, but he is still having a huge influence.
It was Van Persie’s shot that forced the deflected goal at Sunderland and his stunning free-kick that set up the equaliser last night for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side. The Dutchman looks so fired up.
Drought: But Van Persie is still playing an important role at Old Trafford in the title race
He has never won the Premier League and is sitting in a dressing room full of players who have. His move to Old Trafford was about trophies, and he is determined to become a champion.
We should all be delighted that Yaya Toure has signed a new four-year deal with Manchester City. Again last night, he showed what a fantastic player he is. Toure could have gone back to Spain, but instead the Premier League is treated to more of him.
New deal: Yaya Toure, tackling Danny Welbeck, will stay in the Premier League with a new four-year contract
A word of praise for two Englishmen — Gareth Barry and James Milner — in the City midfield. They worked their socks off last night, as they always do. The watching Roy Hodgson must have been impressed. They are the perfect foils for Toure.
National pride: James Milner's deflected shot opened the scoring for Manchester City
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