Graham Potter praises Manchester United defender Jonny Evans | OneFootball

Graham Potter has hailed Jonny Evans’ performance for Manchester United in their goalless draw with Aston Villa.

United’s failure to win at Villa has further mounted pressure on Erik ten Hag, who has failed to lead his side to any win in their last five games across all competitions.

Amid this worrying run of form, a number of managers have been linked with the possibility of replacing the Dutchman at Old Trafford.

Recently, The Peoples Person covered a report suggesting Potter would likely be among the candidates should INEOS show Ten Hag the exit door. United’s new decision makers have allegedly previously tried to lure the former Brighton and Hove Albion manager to Nice in France.

For now, the Englishman remains without a club and recently appeared on BBC’s Match of the Day to share his insights.

Potter asked young centre-backs to learn from Evans, stating: “Sometimes in football it’s less important to be fast, it’s more important to be on time. In the right position on time.”

“Any young defender watching there, it’s almost like a masterclass about how to use your strengths and combat what the opponent can do to you.”

The 36-year-old was a surprise inclusion in Ten Hag’s starting lineup on Sunday, as both Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt were left on the bench.

In the crucial outing, Evans did not disappoint, delivering a resilient performance to help the visitors keep a cleansheet. He was also awarded the Man of the Match award.

In the summer of 2023, Evans returned to United to train and maintain his fitness following his exit from Leicester City.

The Northern Irishman impressed the club coaches and was eventually handed a short-term contract. Owing to the Red Devils’ defensive injury crisis, he became an integral part of Ten Hag’s plans during the 2023/24 campaign.

The way this season has started, it would not surprise many if Evans once again emerges as a regular fixture in the first-team, either under Ten Hag or his possible replacement.

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