Source: Team_Talk
Jones is midfield natural - Allardyce
Sam Allardyce has put Phil Jones' comfortable transition from centre-back to holding midfielder down to the teenager being a "natural".[LNB] Blackburn boss Allardyce sprung a surprise last weekend by playing Jones - who earned rave reviews last season for his performances at the heart of the Rovers defence - in central midfield for the team's Premier League opener against Everton.[LNB]The 18-year-old responded with an impressive display in his new position and looks set to continue there for the trip to Birmingham on Saturday.[LNB]Allardyce believes Jones will eventually develop into an out-and-out central defender, but for now he is delighted to see him using his positional sense in a more advanced role.[LNB]Asked how much work he had to do with Jones to prepare him for playing in midfield, Allardyce said: "Not a lot. If you are a natural, you are a natural.[LNB]"We talk about the coaching side with great importance but at the end of the day, some people just naturally have the ability that they have and that is why they become a top player.[LNB]"He is a natural - he senses where he should be and what the situation is around him.[LNB]"For a young man, he makes more right decisions than some more experienced players.[LNB]"Moving him into midfield was a big ask because the game is so much more difficult in there as it is all around you, rather than just coming on to you as a centre-half.[LNB]"But he commanded that position with great quality on Saturday I felt and it was a big, big bonus for us to see him in that position.[LNB]"Hopefully he will grow in there. I ultimately see him in the end at the back, but certainly for now, he is making a good contribution in the middle of the park in that sitting role."[LNB]Jones himself - who recently made his debut for England under-21s - does not feel his job in the Rovers side has changed much.[LNB]He told the Lancashire Telegraph: "I would not say it was central midfield. I would say it was screening the back four for extra security.[LNB]"It is just like playing centre-back but you have to be more aware of what is around you.[LNB]"I am happy to play there. Obviously I am new to the role and I am learning the role as I go along but hopefully I can adapt and get better and better as it goes on.[LNB]"As a young player you just want to play. I am happy to play anywhere.[LNB]"Obviously there is a real competition for places in the squad and if I can get a couple of positions to my name then it gives me a better chance."[LNB]David Dunn is set to miss the game against his old club on Saturday due to a groin problem.[LNB]The midfielder picked up the injury early in the Everton match and is not expected to be fit for selection until after the contest at St Andrew's.[LNB]The same applies to Vince Grella (calf), but Allardyce hopes to have both players back for next week's Carling Cup encounter with Norwich.
