Capello - Jones born to play

Fabio Capello says youngster Phil Jones was 'born' to play for England after he made his debut for his country in Friday night's final Euro 2012 qualifier.

As Wayne Rooney's dismissal in the 2-2 draw with Montenegro diverted attention away from qualification, it is hardly surprising analysis of Jones' first bow was restricted.

However, despite being selected out of position at right-back, the 19-year-old's display prompted high praise from manager Capello.

Talent

"Phil Jones is born to this," he said. "He is like Jack Wilshere.

"Talent is talent. You can't create it. You are born with it."

The question now appears to be not so much whether Jones is going to be afforded a place in Capello's 23-man squad next summer, more where the Italian sees him best fitting in.

Nominally at least, Glen Johnson is still first-choice right-back.

However, first Chris Smalling, now Jones are providing meaningful competition, and that is without including Kyle Walker and Micah Richards, who admittedly does not appear to be a Capello favourite.

Jones can clearly operate as a defensive midfielder, and did so with distinction at times for Blackburn last season.

Central defence is where he is happiest though, which for club and country poses a major problem forRio Ferdinand, whose appearance record has been average at best for three seasons now.

And with friendlies against Spain and Holland looming over the next few months, Capello is anxious to see whether Jones can retain his composure in his favoured role when attempting to subdue the very best.

Good news

"People only want to speak about Rooney but, oh, guys, Phil Jones is really good news for me," said Capello.

"He played really well, without fear, with personality, going forward, defending well.

"In the next games it will be interesting to see some things, whether Phil Jones can play central defence for example."