“Erik Ten Hag has to Start him in every match after his masterclass performance against Everton. He was what they have been looking for. They could have won lot of matches if not for Erik Utd started him on time”-Fans concluded that Man United star must now start every game after 8/10 “masterclass” v Everton.
In a pivotal match towards their quest for Champions League qualification, Manchester United triumphed over Everton with a 2-0 victory at the revered Old Trafford grounds. This win not only marked a significant step forward for the Red Devils but also underscored their defensive prowess, securing their eighth clean sheet of the season. Remarkably, this places them joint-third in the Premier League for the most shutout performances.
However, luck seemed to sway in their favor as Everton failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities, marred by errant finishing. Despite launching an impressive 23 attempts on goal, Erik ten Hag’s squad found themselves in a statistical quagmire, with only Sheffield United facing more shots this season.
Amidst this backdrop, one player emerged as a beacon of excellence, garnering a commendable 8/10 performance rating from The Manchester Evening News. Jonny Evans, the seasoned defender who returned to the Manchester United fold via a free transfer from Leicester City, surpassed expectations despite his limited involvement in pre-season preparations, having started only once.
In the face of defensive setbacks, including injuries to Lisandro Martinez and the absences of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, the 36-year-old Evans has proven to be a stalwart presence at the backline. Football pundit Liam Canning lauded Evans for his proactive defensive style and wealth of experience, citing his invaluable contributions to United’s defensive solidity.
In his 18th Premier League outing of the campaign, Evans once again showcased his defensive acumen, playing a pivotal role in preserving United’s clean sheet against Everton. His performance was a masterclass in neutralizing Everton’s attacking threats, adeptly handling crosses, set pieces, and shots on goal.
Beth Tucker, a presenter for United Stand, hailed Evans’ performance as a masterclass, emphasizing his multifaceted contribution beyond mere defensive duties. Evans exhibited remarkable composure in possession, as evidenced by his key pass, an impressive 88% pass accuracy, 65 touches, and successful dribbles, as per Sofascore statistics.
Overall, Evans’ acquisition has proven to be a stroke of genius for Ten Hag’s side, with his consistent displays meriting a more permanent place in the starting lineup. Without the Northern Irish defender’s presence, Manchester United’s aspirations for Champions League qualification would undeniably be in jeopardy.
