Since arriving from Blackburn Rover for £18 million in the summer, Jones - who was expected to play nothing more than a bit part role this season - has become an important part of the setup at Old Trafford, excelling at centre-back, right-back and in midfield.
Jones’ positional dexterity has been noted by England coach Fabio Capello, who handed him his international debut at right-back in a 2-2 draw away to Montenegro, which sealed their qualification for Euro 2012.
"It looks to me as though he’ll be a centre-back, but that experience of playing in midfield will make him a better player," Southgate exclusively told FourFourTwo.com
"It will make him a ball-playing centre-back who can bring the ball forward. It will mean he’s more comfortable in possession in midfield areas if it is at centre-back that he ends up being."
Capello, on the other hand, believes his industry could prove a huge asset in midfield, and is set to continue playing him further forward for England’s friendlies next year – something Southgate feels will only help Jones progress on the international scene.
"I don’t see any downside to it, especially in the friendly matches giving him that experience," he said.
"I think it will help his development; it will help his understanding of other players in his team and their role, and it’s great for a youngster to get that different experience."
Gareth Southgate was speaking on behalf of Carlsberg, The Official Beer of The England Team. Carlsberg will be giving away tickets to Euro 2012 throughout the season. Keep checking Facebook.com/CarlsbergForEngland for your chance to watch England in next summer’s EURO 2012™ Championships.
