UNITED STARS COMPETE TO STAY SHARP IN LOCKDOWN

MANCHESTER UNITED’S players have maintained their competitive streak by trying to beat each other’s best times in fitness drills.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad (above) have all been given individual training programmes to follow during the coronavirus lockdown.

And Phil Jones (below) revealed he has been swapping his running and cycling times with fellow defender Harry Maguire (bottom) and the other players in a Whatsapp group to help everyone stay sharp during the enforced break.

“We have a Whatsapp group and we’re doing our day-to-day routines on the bike, or going out for a run,” said Jones.

“We’ve all been posting our times in the group to keep everyone involved and engaged.

“That’s the only way to keep in contact at the moment, via technology. It keeps us together and keeps us all talking.

“The Government has stated that we’re allowed one outside activity every day, so I try and get outside and go for a 5km run every day.

“I’m just trying to keep fit every day and maintain my fitness. I also have a cycling machine at home so I can top up my fitness on the bike if needed. It’s a difficult time for everyone, but we are taking precautions.

“I miss football. I miss the lads and being in and around the changing room. It’s all I’ve known for the last 15 or so years, so it’s difficult.”

Jones acknowledged the frustration of the fans, with no football on the horizon, but said: “Just be patient and keep supporting us through these tough times.

“The players are as frustrated as you are, but sometimes football has to take a back seat. Not often, but this is one of those times, and lives and health are so much more important than football.

“I’m sure that people understand, and we are just supporting those on the front-line like the NHS. We will pull together and get through it, and I’m sure the good times will just be around the corner again.”