The young defenders has played a key role for United so far this season and have both been called up for the England senior squad.
Butcher wrote in his column for the Mirror: “Phil Jones and Chris Smalling are two great examples of central defenders who have shown a brilliant aptitude to play at right-back.
“The Manchester United duo are better defenders than the Da Silva twins and are relaxed and comfortable when on the ball, especially in advanced areas.
“Both are extremely positive going forward and do not panic when under pressure despite their relative inexperience.
“If Sir Alex Ferguson wants you to play out of your normal position, then that’s what happens – at other clubs these two youngsters would never have been moved out of their comfort zones. But this is Manchester United and Sir Alex’s perception will improve both players’ understanding of the game.
“Thirty years ago Sir Bobby Robson moved me to left back to play against the first £1million footballer – Trevor Francis of Nottingham Forest – and I played there for over 50 more games including a European semi-final.
“It would seem then that Sir Alex is going full-back to the future for both Jones and Smalling!”
