Jonny Evans said Manchester United‘s 1-0 win at Burnley was the “best night of my life” after the 35-year-old marked his first start for the club since 2015 with an outstanding performance for Erik ten Hag’s team.
The Northern Ireland international, who left Old Trafford eight years ago, was handed a one-year contract by the club this summer after leaving relegated Leicester City as a free agent at the end of last season.
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And despite his signing being ridiculed by many due his age and injury record at Leicester last year, Evans silenced his critics with a top-class display at Turf Moor which was marked by his 40-yard pass that set up the winning goal for Bruno Fernandes.
“I loved every minute of it,” Evans said. “Before the game you get a feeling, I couldn’t wait, it was just pure excitement. 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.”
