Ex-Premier League boss shocks fans by turning out for non-league minnows… and gets an assist
NATHAN JONES is back in football – just over a week after being axed by Southampton.
The Welshman was given the boot by Saints last week after a torrid run of results following his appointment last November.
But rather than taking a break from the game, Jones jumped straight back in by lacing up his boots to play in the TWELTH TIER of English football.
Jones, 49, signed up to play for Cranborne FC – who he made his debut for on Saturday against Wareham Rangers Reserves.
And he made an instant impression at the Dorset Division One club, notching an assist early doors.
Cranborne’s official account tweeted: “And it’s a goal early on!
“Debutant Nathan Jones puts a great cross in from the left, and Driscoll scores!”
An image of Jones in action started doing the rounds on social media, with one footy fan saying: “What a bloke!”
Another said: “He is a unique guy, you have to hand him that.”
And another said: “Mad story. One week you’re managing in the Premier League, the next you’re playing in the Dorset League.”
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One remarked: “Last Saturday managing Southampton, this Saturday playing for the mighty Cranes. Brilliant.”
Another chimed in: “Fair play to him.”
Jones’ debut, however, didn’t last long as he went off with a calf injury ten minutes into the match.
According to reports, Jones answered Cranborne’s call for an extra body when they were a player short.
And the former Luton boss is said to have jumped at the chance to help out the club, who one of his close pals plays for.
During his playing days, Jones turned out for numerous teams including Brighton, Southend and Yeovil.
Jones left Southampton rock bottom of the Premier League following one win in eight matches, seven of which they lost.