Evans makes Dan Gore admission and reveals what he is telling United youngsters
Source: Manchestereveningnews

Centre-back Jonny Evans has admitted that he was 'proud' to be part of Dan Gore's Manchester United debut last month.

Gore, who joined United's academy back in 2018, made his senior debut for the club in the second half of the 3-0 Carabao Cup win over Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. He stepped off the bench after 61 minutes to replace summer signing Sofyan Amrabat.

The midfielder, who turned 19 the same day, had impressed at various junctures during pre-season and had been knocking on manager Erik ten Hag's door in pursuit of a first taste of senior football. He stepped onto the field of play alongside Evans, with the defender replacing Raphael Varane.

That marked the Northern Irishman's first Old Trafford appearance since sealing his return to the club in the summer, meaning it was just as special a moment for the seasoned veteran. Despite that, Evans was just as delighted for Gore to make his United bow as he was to make his own return.

"For a club like Manchester United, the academy is such a huge part of this club," Evans told MUTV. "The tradition, and all the young players, the support they get from the fans.

"I was as delighted for Dan Gore as I was for myself getting back onto the Old Trafford pitch because I know what that feels like and what the emotions that he and his family would be going through. It was a special moment.

"I was pleased that we came on at the same time, really. I felt proud to be a part of that moment for him, too."

Turning 36 in January, Evans is one of the most experienced players inside United's dressing room, meaning he has no shortage of advice and guidance that he can pass down to the younger members of the squad.

He added: "One thing looking back on now, you know, you're so far from being the finished product of where you want to be as a player. Sometimes, at the time, you think that it is such a big challenge, and all that pressure, and everything coming onto you.

"But I think, for me, looking back, even when I left the club, there is still so much improvement to come, and you have got to keep improving as a player. I think that's one thing that you can sort of pass on, and I always want to pass on to young players 'keep improving, keep working hard, and keep your feet on the ground'."