Unlocking Amrabat: Jonny Evans could be key to Manchester United signing making bigger impact

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Manchester United midfielder Sofyan Amrabat has started two games for the club so far, both at left-back.

New loan signing Sofyan Amrabat has had to fill-in at left-back, amid an injury crisis.

Amrabat has applied himself to the task well, showing an eagerness to get on the ball and influence play, however, Manchester United really need him in midfield.

A solution is required to effectively unlock the midfielder, by moving him back into his preferred position.

Jonny Evans can play left-back

Manchester United are playing Sofyan Amrabat at left-back due to injuries to Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and emergency cover Sergio Reguilon.

Casemiro needs Amrabat’s help in midfield, that’s why he was signed. So Manchester United need another alternative.

Step forward surprise signing Jonny Evans, who has played at left-back before.

Evans filled in at left-back for a stretch during his time at West Bromwich Albion, who he joined from Manchester United.

He was praised by Baggies manager Tony Pulis, who told Talksport after a 1-0 win over Palace in 2016: “It’s not Jonny’s favourite position playing as a full-back, he was most probably our best player on the pitch.

“His performance was fantastic. He played ever so well. The thing is with Jonny, I think he could play anywhere.”

Interestingly, in the match Pulis refers to, he successfully shut down Wilfried Zaha, who United will face with Galatasaray this week.

Evans demonstrated in Manchester United’s recent win over Burnley that he has a strong passing range, and could be an asset in the position.

Amrabat will benefit

Evans can be relied on defensively at the position, and Manchester United should see this as a solution to getting more out of Sofyan Amrabat.

Amrabat had 136 touches of the ball in the loss against Palace, and the key for United is to get him into areas where he can better benefit the team, also pushing Casemiro forward.

Playing him at left-back seems like a waste, especially when there are alternatives like Evans who can step in.