By OLIVER TODD, DIGITAL HEAD OF SPORT

Published: 13:17, 13 February 2026 | Updated: 13:19, 13 February 2026

He's seen Michael Carrick excelling back at Manchester United - and now old team-mate Phil Jones is following him into coaching work.

Jones, 33, has been appointed as an assistant to Michael O'Neill at Blackburn Rovers, alongside former Southampton and Rangers midfielder Steven Davis.

O'Neill, the Northern Ireland manager, has returned to the Championship on a job-share agreement until the end of the season which sees him continue to work in international football including in the World Cup play-off semi-final against Italy next month.

Northern Ireland claim the move to allow O'Neill to job share is 'progressive' and won't impact the country's World Cup qualification bid.  

'Michael remaining active on the grass during this period can only enhance the level of our preparation for the play-off,' said Irish FA chief executive Patrick Nelson.

Phil Jones (right) is moving into coaching work - just like his old pal Michael Carrick (centre)

Michael...