Jonny Evans was drafted in as a last-minute defensive addition during the summer transfer window of 2023.
The Northern Irish defender, who was last at Leicester City, was chosen as the emergency option to cover for United’s centre-back deficiencies.
The defender had yet to start a game in his second spell back at United prior to the Saturday night win over Burnley but was drafted in due to the injury crisis at the club.
Evans thought he scored his first goal since his return but it was cruelly ruled out due to Rasmus Hojlund being offside, as Evans connected with the cross from Sergio Reguilon.
Evans’ impact
The defender replaced Lisandro Martinez as it seems the Argentine hasn’t quite recovered from the foot injury he suffered during the defeat against Arsenal.
Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane were also unavailable during the game, although the Frenchman was on the bench for the Red Devils.
Evans made a superb impact on proceedings as he had a pass completion rate of 91 per cent and completed 8 clearances, according to Fotmob. It was his raking pass for Bruno Fernandes that gave the Red Devils the three points with the Portuguese midfielders’ superb volley.
Evans a smart signing
The former Leicester and West Brom defender was certainly a surprise signing for the Red Devils when it was announced after his initial trial period at the club.
Evans may well be the ideal fifth-choice central defender. Due to his age, he will never demand first-team appearances at the club and will happily play a bit-part role at the club.
Evans’ title-winning experience will also play a big part for United this season and he could play a pivotal role in the development of the younger players at the club.
It was certainly a risk completing the signing of the experienced central defender but as the season goes on and, if Evans features more for the club, he could well prove to be a very competent signing for the Red Devils.
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