Evans: One thing that will never change at United

The Northern Irishman graduated from the Academy to make his senior debut back in 2007 and he went on to enjoy eight seasons as a Red, before departing for West Bromwich Albion in 2015. 

Evans returned to the club last summer, to provide cover at centre-back and supply experience, in a dressing room filled with young players, including several homegrown talents. A great example of that was the recent 3-2 win over Aston Villa when eight Academy players all contributed to the comeback, including two-goal hero Alejandro Garnacho and Premier League debutant Dan Gore.

A true professional, Jonny has embraced his role as a senior pro and, in a big interview with Zarah Connolly, the birthday boy shares details of a recent conversation with Sir Alex, a man who helped generations of young players to realise their dreams, both at United and across football.  

Asked if nights like the win over Villa give him a real sense of pride, Evans says: “Totally, and I think it is a big part of this club. It has been the history of this club.

“I actually spoke to Sir Alex, a month or two ago, just a quick phone call, and it is one of the things that came up, the history of the club and Academy players, how it's a big belief at this club, to give young players a chance. I don't think that is ever going to change. I think it is always going to be the way here.”

Naturally, the squad has changed since Evans made the transition into professional football, but the club’s commitment to developing homegrown talent is as strong as ever and the influence of mentors remains. And Jonny is trying to give back in a way that several United legends previously did for him.

“It's a nice place to be,” he says of his new role. “I think the young lads respect me. You know, I don't feel like I am one to force my opinions but if somebody asks for my advice, I am always glad to give it. I love seeing the young Academy lads coming up and being involved in first-team training. 

“It has been really nice to be an Academy player but obviously, in a strange way, at a senior level. I suppose I can always relate back to when I was coming into the first team as a young lad. 

“We had players like Paul Scholes, Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs and other Academy players. It has made me realise the feeling and connection that they had for us at the time.

“I always felt, at the time, they were amazing with the young lads coming in, and even other experienced first-team players. They were always so welcoming and making sure we were able to perform at our best.”

The aforementioned Gore, Kobbie Mainoo and Willy Kambwala are three Academy players who have broken into Erik ten Hag’s first team this season, after impressing the manager in training and around the club.

Evans is full of praise for the group and how they have conducted themselves so far. “I have been so impressed and I think their attitudes, first and foremost, have been outstanding,” explains Jonny.

“I think having a good attitude as a young kid always allows you to progress and you get to a certain period in your career. The three of them have got it. 

“Every time they come into training, they show great character and application. I think that's the reason why they have been given that. The manager has been able to look at that and see that he can trust them.”

Watch our full interview with Jonny in the video above.