Defending made easy with Phil Jones: Part three

To dive in or not to dive in, that is the question? Manchester United and England defender Phil Jones, talks last ditch tackles with FFT
Nailing a last ditch tackle for a defender is like thumping a bicycle kick into the top corner of the net for a striker: It’s their box office moment.

But it can go horribly wrong. Mistime the challenge and a defender faces being sent down the tunnel for an early bath. Over commit and they can be seen sliding off into the distance as the attacker skips past the tackle and bears down on goal.

Given the risks involved, should a defender entrust his goalkeeper with making a save and run to cover the goal line? Or do they put their neck on the line and throw themselves into the challenge?

It’s a matter of risk assessment, says Manchester United and England defender Phil Jones.

“It depends on the game situation. If we’re winning 2-1, I’ll quite happily make a foul and take the red card,” he told FFT.

“But if we’re 3-0 up and he’s one-on-one with the goalkeeper then I won’t take the risk.”

Make sure your equipped to make the right decision with more expert tips from Jones in this video (don’t blame FFT if you get sent off).

Phil Jones wears the Puma PowerCat 1.12. For more information visit puma.com/football

Also see:
“What’s the key to a good defence? Talk, talk, talk”
Defending made easy with Phil Jones: Part one
Defending made easy with Phil Jones: Part two
Defending made easy with Phil Jones: Part four
Defending made easy with Phil Jones: Part five
Defending made easy with Phil Jones: Part six

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