Blackburn Rovers boss Steve Kean is tipping Phil Jones as a future England captain.
Jones started this season in the heart of Rovers' midfield but, while admitting he can do a job there from time to time, Kean believes his future lies in defence.
He said: "If you are player and can play in a number of positions then sometimes that can be a disadvantage. You end up not doing one position, I see Phil long term as being a centre half for the club.
"We have to put him in the position where we can see him going from strength to strength and hopefully captain England one day.
"He is ahead of schedule. The sooner he is back the better. Having him back would be a massive boost. I know he has been working hard and his fitness levels will be very good. He should come back stronger."
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