Jones reveals return delight

Manchester United defender Phil Jones was delighted to make his return on Tuesday following a "torrid" six months on the sidelines.

United slumped to a 1-0 defeat at Galatasaray as they surrendered their 100% European record this season and Jones admits losing the game was a disappointment, but on a personal level he was pleased to return to action. The defender has endured a difficult spell on the sidelines and hasn't featured since England's win over Norway in May due to back and knee issues. Jones revealed his delight at making his return to competitive action, despite the fact United suffered a first European defeat of the campaign in Turkey. "I'm delighted. I've had a torrid six months in and out of the team and fitness," he told Sky Sports. "I was delighted to get 90 minutes and I hope I can push on now." The Old Trafford side had already secured their progression to the knockout stages ahead of the trip to Galatasaray and boss Sir Alex Ferguson chose to make a number of changes to his side. Youngster Nick Powell, a summer signing from Crewe, made his Champions League debut, while striker Federico Macheda made his first appearance of the season.