Manchester United hero Gary Pallister says Phil Jones already looks a leader.

United have real strength in depth in central defence, with Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans all vying for a spot with Jones.

"He's been exceptional," he told the Manchester Evening News. "He's only 19. When I joined United I was 24 with a wealth of experience, even if it wasn't in the top flight.

"He looks like he's been playing at United for the past four or five years.

"Already you can see him pointing the finger, bossing people about, shouting and organising players who are much more experienced than him. It is rare that you see that in someone who is only 19.

"He has everything you need to be a top player. What I like about him is his temperament and character.

"He could be there for a number of years. He's got great maturity and if he keeps going on like this he is going to be an outstanding footballer and have a huge part to play for United.

"But you can't forget about Chris Smalling and Jonny Evans either. Evans has put last year behind him and produced some great performances this season.

"These are great problems for the manager to have and it's exactly what he would have hoped for."