MATTHEW JONES

Personal Stats
DOB: 1/9/80
Birthplace: Llanelli, Wales
Height: 5'11"


Profile
Matthew became another of United's youth team to be given the taste of the big time following the appointment of David O'Leary in October 1998, when he made his debut as a half-time replacement for Danny Granville in Leeds 5-1 Fourth Round FA Cup win over Portsmouth at Fratton Park in January 1999.
The utility midfielder, had already been capped by Wales at B and U-21 level and has since gone on to become a regular for his country shortly after he signed a new five year contract at Elland Road in September 1999.
Last season was a good one for the Welsh international, who was pitched into battle in most of United's biggest games of the season, notably in Europe.
Matthew, the second of three children, was spotted at the age of 12 playing for Seaside FC by Glan Letheran, a former United keeper from the 1970's, and despite interest from Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Swansea and Sheffield Wednesday, he went on to sign schoolboy forms with United.
After a chat with Howard Wilkinson convinced him that the plans for youth development at the new youth academy at Thorp Arch would give him the best possible chance of fulfilling his potential Jonesy moved north and attended school at Boston Spa for a year, before becoming a youth trainee at 16.
After signing pro forms on his 17th birthday Matthew was part of the Leeds youth team that won the 1997 FA Youth Cup Final against Crystal Palace.
Now the tall quietly-spoken Welshman, who has played in every position on the park at youth and reserve level, other than left back and goalkeeper, is eyeing a regular spot in the first team squad, with his eventual aim a place in the middle of midfield.
Annoyingly good looking, Jonesy will become a real favourite with the ladies, but having had a taste of the first team, the only eye he's trying to catch at the moment is that of David O'Leary!

Career Stats:

Squad No. 20

Position: Utility Midfielder

Date Signed: 1/9/97

Signed from: Schoolboy Transfer

Transfer fee: None

International Honours: Wales U-21, Full Int

Previous Clubs: None