During the international break, Manchester United have 13 players away representing their countries. However, some players stayed back at Carrington this week either because they weren't selected or because they're dealing with injuries.
Jonny Evans falls into the latter category. He didn't join his Northern Ireland teammates due to a knock he got before the Liverpool game. Instead, Evans was at Carrington to greet his former teammate Rio Ferdinand. The retired defender had some nice words for him.
In the video, Ferdinand said to Evans: "How are you doing? You look better now than when you were here before. He looks in better shape!"
Evans' role at the club this season has been unexpected. Coming back as a free agent, no one thought he'd play as much as he has. It was wise to have experienced cover while waiting to sign a big-money centre-back. Turns out, his signing has been crucial.
Erik ten Hag’s team has been dealing with injuries all season, especially in defence. Martinez, Shaw, Malacia, Maguire, Varane, Lindelof, and Wan-Bissaka have all been sidelined for significant periods.
With so few options, the 36-year-old Evans has played 24 times this season, more than expected. Without him, it's hard to say who would have filled in at the back.
