Jonny Evans rolled back the years with his performance for Manchester United against Burnley - and captain Bruno Fernandes certainly took notice.
Struggling United, who have had an indifferent start to the 2023/24 campaign, got a much needed 1-0 win last night against the Clarets at Turf Moor to move up to eighth in the Premier League table.
Fernandes's superb volley from a long ball forward by Evans on the stroke of half-time was what ultimately proved to be the difference, after the defender had an earlier headed finish chalked off for offside following a VAR review.
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Ten Hag's side were able to hang on to their lead during a nervy finish in Lancashire as Vincent Kompany's outfit tried in vain for a share of the spoils.
Evans returned to United over the summer, having come through the youth team ranks at Old Trafford initially and departing in 2015 to move to West Bromwich Albion.
The 35-year-old began training once again with Erik ten Hag's side after his summer release by Leicester City, then signing a short-term deal before agreeing a one-year contract.
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Evans made his first start for United since rejoining the club last night at Turf Moor, grabbing an assist and contributing to a clean sheet as the Reds got back to winning ways.
After the match, Fernandes and Evans were interviewed on the pitch by TNT Sports, with the Portuguese star being given man of the match.
But in a classy move, Fernandes gave the award straight to Evans.
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Upon receiving the trophy, the United captain said: "I will give this to Jonny."
Evans responded with a smile and said: "I'm going to give it back to you in a sec!"
But Fernandes responded: "No, it's yours. You're welcome."
And a grateful Evans replied: "Thanks, I appreciate it."
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Evans, in his second stint at United, admitted he was excited to play once again for the club where he came through the youth team ranks after eight years away.
He told ESPN: "I loved every minute of it. Before the game you get a feeling, I couldn't wait, it was just pure excitement.
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"Coming up here on the bus I was buzzing. That was my 200th game for Man Utd, I never thought I would ever reach that figure - the best night of my life. When you get to a certain age, you start to wind down your career.
"I got the call [from United] and didn't have another option, so I just took it and tried to do my best in training and take my chance.
"You then just hope your body sees you through. It was never a thought that I would come in and be a starter -- I was told that my role would be to provide competition and that is how I have approached it.
"With a few injuries, I then had the chance to start tonight. I think I slotted in well tonight and really added my experience to the side."
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Featured Image Credit: Screengrab/XTopics: Bruno Fernandes, Burnley, Manchester United, Premier League, Football
