It is the time for announcements at Manchester United as the transfer window ticks to a close but amidst all the chaos, a different kind of announcement has arrived.
Manchester United star Jonny Evans has cut through the transfer news clutter with a message to the footballing world to which Scott McTominay has reacted.
It is McTominay’s first message since his Napoli transfer looked imminent, the official announcement for which could come anytime now.
In the meantime, he has left the stage for Evans with a congratulatory message, who has made a major career announcement.
Jonny Evans retires from international football
Jonny Evans has long been a stalwart for his international side Northern Ireland, for whom he bows out after making a staggering 107 appearances.
He scored six goals in those 107 appearances and became a leadership figure in the camp soon after his debut in 2006.
He is one of only four players to make more than 100 appearances for the Northern Ireland international team, and his announcement has been greeted with congratulations from all corners of the footballing world.
Evans posted the message on his Instagram, recounting his best moments in international football and expressing gratitude for all those involved in his journey.
Manchester United responded to the post with two words that succinctly describe Evans’ standing in his country, writing, “National Icon”.
Harry Maguire reacted with two clapping emojis while fellow elder statesman at Old Trafford, Tom Heaton said, “Incredible pal” with two clapping emojis.
McTominay replied to it on his stories with a ten-word message that expressed his admiration for the defender. saying: “Congratulations on an amazing international career, you are the man!!!!”
McTominay and Evans are similar
It is poetic that an international chapter of Jonny Evans’ career is closing just as a new club chapter for Scott McTominay is about to begin.
The two academy graduates are quite similar in terms of being absolute model professionals who are a credit to the ethos of the academy.
Their quality on the pitch has been doubted many times, with Evans also leaving the club for more first-team opportunities before a sensational return, but they have had long and fulfilling careers.
It is because of their commitment to their game, drive to improve, and willingness to recognise their limitations while still giving it their all on the field.
This has led to fans gaining respect for them that goes far beyond their achievements on the field. It can be seen in the emotional reaction of fans to the news of McTominay’s departure, and the reaction to Evans’ announcement has been similar.
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