Stuart Jones

A former Swansea City defender who also played for the Wales under 21 team.

Born:

14 MAR 1984

Place of Birth:

Aberystwyth

School:

Penglais Secondary School

Biography:

Born in Aberystwyth, Stuart Jones was a keen footballer from a young age. His passion for the beautiful game took off at Cwmpadarn Primary School in Llanbadarn Fawr when a new headmaster arrived - and introduced soccer to the school.

Stuart was soon playing for his school team in Aberystwyth's Mini Minor League. He went on to play for Aberystwyth Schools before being picked to play for Mid Wales Schools.

In 1995, while a pupil at Penglais Comprehensive School, Stuart was playing in the Ian Rush tournament at Aberystwyth when he was spotted by a Manchester United scout. After a trial with the club, he was signed up for Old Trafford's youth system.

During that time, he'd often see some of the club's big stars like Ryan Giggs and David Beckham.

Stuart admits to being "devastated" when he was released by Manchester United at the age of 14. But the young defender was quickly picked up by Swansea City and moved to the Vetch for the start of the under 15s season.

Since then, he has moved through the youth ranks and earned himself a place in the Swans' first team.

His debut for the club - in an LDV Vans Trophy match against Stevenage in October 2002 - was described as "outstanding" by the Western Mail newspaper.

In 2003, Stuart picked up his first cap for his country when he was chosen to play for Wales Under 19s.

In September 2004, he took the next step up the ladder of international football by making his debut for Wales at Under-21 level against Azerbaijan as the team opened their European Under-21 Championship qualifing campaign.

Stuart had a disappointing 2004-2005 season with the Swans, starting only four times for the first team. In May 2005, he was released from Swansea City and the following month, he signed for Llanelli. More from BBC Sport...

Factfile Full Name: Stuart John Jones Position: Defender Height: 6'0" Weight: 11st 8lb

Photos of Stuart training with the Swans...

Stuart's top tips...

Q & A with Stuart...

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