PHIL Jones admits it is the memory of the Red Devils’ title celebrations at Ewood Park that persuaded the defender to switch clubs.

The former Rovers defender saw Wayne Rooney’s late equaliser last season clinch that record 19th title.

United began their party on the field as soon as the final whistle blew. And Jones wanted a piece of the action as he quickly sealed a big money move to Old Trafford.

“That is exactly why I left,” he said. “I had some fond memories from my time at Blackburn and there are some wonderful people at the club.

“But I wanted to win trophies and become part of a team with a massive background, which United have.

“To lift that trophy at the end of the season would be a wonderful achievement for me.”

Yet Jones’ status as a Blackburn player from his youth days allows him to provide an insight into why United have struggled so badly at Ewood Park in recent seasons.

“It is a really tough place to go to start with, and it is Manchester United,” he said.

“It is a local derby and the build-up is all about pressing and how you can stop them from playing. It will be no different this week.

“They will be getting their tactics sorted and we need to be right at the top of our game to overcome that.”

Jones has kept in touch with a number of former team-mates since his £16.5m move to Old Trafford.

“I keep in contact with quite a few of the lads and I have spoken to a few of the lads,” he said.

“They are a great bunch and will always be my friends.

“But not in the last week. I don’t want to give anything away – and nor do they.”