Speaking about Jonny Evans’ admirable performances for Man United this season, Rio Ferdinand said: “I've said this many times, it was a travesty that they sold Jonny Evans. He should never have been allowed to leave.
“He was the best defender, the best centre back, when I left. When me and [Nemanja] Vidic walked out of the door, the experience, the old timers, we were gone, he was the best defender that you've got.
“I just couldn't believe that he was allowed to leave. Him and Chris Smalling, to be fair. I don't believe they should have been allowed to leave, I thought they knew the fabric of the club. You need those types.”
Man United probably did make a blunder by selling Evans in 2015 – which was probably the then-manager Louis van Gaal’s decision over what the club hierarchy had wanted.
Irrespective, the 36-year-old defender has proven to be a valuable addition to Erik ten Hag’s squad this season and produced a number of impressive performances – including his heroic effort in the 0-0 draw against Liverpool at Anfield earlier in the campaign.
Evans might have a shout to start against Liverpool once more in the upcoming FA Cup quarter-final and will hope to produce a similarly sturdy performance to keep Mo Salah & co quiet.
