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World Cup: England's Phil Jones says shoulder feels fine ahead of Brazil

Image: Phil Jones: Shoulder felt fine in Ecuador draw

England defender Phil Jones says his shoulder 'feels good' and believes the Ecuador game was useful in terms of World Cup preparation.

Jones played alongside Manchester United team-mate Chris Smalling at the heart of England's defence in Wednesday night's 2-2 draw with Ecuador in Miami.

The United defender was a doubt for Brazil after damaging his left shoulder ligaments in May's 3-1 win over Hull City - but he came through a physical encounter unscathed in midweek, when Wayne Rooney and Rickie Lambert were on target.

Gary Cahill and Phil Jagielka are Roy Hodgson's first-choice defensive partnership - but Jones is ready to play if called upon having stood up to the challenge of facing some 'big units' in the Ecuador team.

The shoulder feels good. It was a test and I've come through it fine. They had some big units out there.
Phil Jones

England play Honduras at 9.45pm on Saturday night and Jones told The Sun: "The shoulder feels good. It was a test and I've come through it fine. They had some big units out there.

"They're no mugs, Ecuador. It was a good test and I'm positive. It was a good work-out and a good test against a good team.

"We could have scored a few more goals but overall I think we're pleased.

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"It was difficult at times in the heat but that's what we wanted and that's what we expected. The preparation is for June 14 when we play Italy."

Jones can also play at right-back, where Liverpool's Glen Johnson is first-choice.

Manchester City's James Milner filled the full-back position against Ecuador and impressed Jones, who added: "Milly looked a natural. He's a terrific player with great energy."

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