Robert William “Rob” Jones (born November 3, 1979 in Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham) is an English football player, currently captain of Hibernian in the Scottish Premier League. He started his career playing non-league football in his native north-east while working as a PE teacher at Whitehouse Primary school for special needs children.
Grimsby Town
Grimsby Town signed Jones on a free transfer from Stockport in July 2004 after impressing on trial. After the 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in September 2005, he was carried off the pitch by Grimsby fans.
Although in his first season, Jones struggled to cement his name in the first team. However in his second season with Grimsby, Jones was one of many players to have an outstanding season with the club. After strong performances throughout the season, including some vital goals, Rob was named the player of the season for Grimsby.
Despite having a superb season Jones had a bad game in the play-off final, nearly costing his side two goals. This did not affect his reputation with the clubs fans, who still respected him highly as he departed Grimsby. Grimsby managed to negotiate a large sell-on clause for Jones meaning should Hibs cash in on their captain Grimsby will receive a sizeable portion of the fee.
Hibernian
Jones signed for Hibernian on a four year contract from Grimsby in June 2006 for undisclosed fee. At 6’7″, Jones is the tallest defender in the Scottish Premier League. Due to his height, Jones is a major threat at offensive set pieces. As a result of this, he scored eight goals in the 2006-07 season.
Jones has been very well received by Hibs supporters who have created his own individual song to the tune of the “Gold” by Spandau Ballet which is frequently chanted towards him during matches. Jones was made captain of Hibernian on 2 January 2007, replacing Kevin Thomson. Jones went on to captain Hibs to their first piece of silverware in 16 years by beating Kilmarnock 5-1 in the Scottish League Cup Final on March 18, 2007, Jones himself opend the scoring with a textbook header from a corner kick. Jones was claimed to be angry at Hibs, after the club turned down an offer from Leeds United.
