Phil Jones admits Man Utd had become a “laughing stock” under Jose Mourinho, but says the team must now be taken seriously by their rivals.
United’s 3-0 win away to Fulham on Saturday moved the Red Devils into fourth place in the Premier League standings for the first time since the opening day of the season.
Under caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, United remain unbeaten in 11 games in all competitions.
And Jones said: “It’s a big statement from where we were. We just need to keep improving and keep picking up points.
“Everyone’s got to take us seriously now. We might have been a bit of a laughing stock at the beginning of the season but we’re certainly not now.
“We’ve proven that in the last 10 or 12 games. We’re improving, we’re still getting better.
“It was tough for everyone involved. The club, the supporters, everyone. But it’s about becoming stronger and seeing that through.
“I’ve said it in the past, we’ve not achieved anything yet, we’re under no illusions but we’re heading in the right direction.”
Jones played the entirety of United’s win over Fulham, a day after signing a new long-term deal at the club.
And he added: “I don’t lose sleep about what people say about me. It’s football. I’m going to get criticism in the future, I’ve had criticism in the past. Honestly, I genuinely don’t care.
“I have a wonderful family and friends. I play football for Man United, I’ve been given an extra contract. I’m grateful for that.”
