Patrice Evra insists Gaby Heinze's likely departure does not mean he will be handed the left-back berth on a permanent basis.

The 26-year-old enjoyed an impressive campaign last time out and held a firm grip on the left sided defensive slot for most of the season until injury disrupted his progress in the final few months.

Sir Alex Ferguson revealed earlier this week that Heinze has asked to leave the club after months of speculation over his future, but Evra insists he won't believe that until it happens.

"Football changes all the time and you don't know what will happen - Gaby may come back," he says. "And then there Mikael [Silvestre] - a great player - who can play there.

"I don't see myself as being the first choice [at left-back]. I'm just a Manchester United player. I did well last season and my job this season is continue doing that."

Evra says no player is guaranteed a starting position week in, week out, but he is aiming to do his utmost to ensure he is involved as much as possible.

"You have to give your best all the time otherwise you will find yourself on the bench - nobody is guaranteed to play every match," he insists.

"All I can do is give my best - I don't want people  to say I was lucky last season - I want to sure them I can play well in every game."