Rio Ferdinand was left perplexed by Jonny Evans’ return to Manchester United last summer but is impressed with how his former teammate has fared.
Nobody – not even Evans – would’ve expected to see the 36-year-old starting for United in both Manchester derbies almost nine years after he departed Old Trafford, let alone make 23 appearances in all competitions.
He was sought on a free deal from Leicester City, whom he captained, following their relegation to the Championship in 2022/2023. Evans had spent time at Carrington across the summer break to keep his fitness levels up while searching for a new suitor before United offered the veteran a one-year contract.
Frequent injuries to the likes of Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof, as well as a long-term setback to Lisandro Martinez, saw Evans called upon early on in the campaign, and he has since gone on to feature in every competition.
Former Red puzzled by Evans signing
Ferdinand is well-acquainted with the Northern Ireland international from their playing days but believes he shouldn’t be playing such a key role at the club in this day and age.
“I didn’t expect him to come in and play as many games and I didn’t expect him to do as well as he’s done,” he began on his FIVE podcast. “But he hasn’t put a foot wrong, it’s crazy. He’s good with the ball, he’s probably good with the younger players. He’ll probably go into coaching after. He wouldn’t have expected to play as many games but listen, the way he’s going it wouldn’t surprise me if he got a new contract, if not there then definitely somewhere else.
“But really, as well as he’s done and as much as I admire him as a professional, really he shouldn’t be at Man United. It just shows you where they are. He shouldn’t be being asked to come in and play and chase [Erling] Haaland around. That’s not what the top clubs are doing nowadays.”
You know you can’t win if you’re a MU player these days. Play great you’re too old! Play lousy you’re too young! I expect Jonny and ETH didn’t expect him to play as often as he has but he has. He’s done a fantastic job in my opinion. Circumstances have dictated how he has been used but that is because of injuries.
Jonny Evans SHOULD be offered a contract.
1) Great back up that can play 90 minutes when needed or less as a late game sub.
2) Shows younger players “WHAT IT TAKES” to be a professional and a MU PROFESSIONAL!
3) Can start towards a coaching program by helping out in training NO MATTER who is manager.