MANCHESTER United striker Wayne Rooney can’t wait to team up with Phil Jones – after admitting ‘he gave him hell’ last season.

Minutes after Jones’ medical at Manchester United became public knowledge yesterday, Rooney added his support to the 19-year-old’s Old Trafford capture, insisting he had great potential.

Jones’ £16.5m switch to Old Trafford was set to be completed last night with Rooney hailing Alex Ferguson’s latest bit of business.

Rooney said: “Phil Jones is a good young English player. He is one of the toughest defenders I played against last season and he can play midfield too.”

Jones’ departure left Rovers fans devastated but former Ewood favourite Colin Hendry insists the deal could be good for all concerned.

Hendry, who won the Premier League with Rovers, believes Jones will go on to become an England regular in the future.

He said: “It is a no-lose situation for all concerned. Manchester United have a young player with great potential and Blackburn Rovers have got £16.5million for a player they developed from their academy.

“I am sure the player and his agent, together with his parents, would have analysed every aspect of the move and will have been sure this was the right move.

“He is only young and United are not buying a finished product.

"But I’m sure when he gets his chance he will be able to take it and will become a fixture in the team sooner rather than later.

“It is great to see Blackburn Rovers’ academy producing such players.

"The club have put a lot into their youth system and they are reaping their rewards.

“I’m sure it won’t be long before Phil is playing for England, he has shown he is that good.”

Rovers striker Jason Roberts said: “I would like to wish Phil Jones all the very best.

"He has been great for us and will be missed by us all.”