Manchester United have confirmed a new role for Jonny Evansplaceholder image
Manchester United have confirmed a new role for Jonny Evans | Manchester United via Getty Images
Man Utd have made a new appointment at youth level and fans are sure to love it.
Manchester United have appointed former defender Jonny Evans as their new head of loans and pathways. The 37-year-old has officially retired from professional football after he was not handed a new playing contract by the club and will instead take up a youth development role.
Evans will effectively replace the club's former loan manager Les Parry, who left Old Trafford last year to take up a similar role in Saudi Arabia. The United favourite will be tasked with identifying appropriate loan opportunities for United's youngsters and keeping tabs on their development while they are away from the club.
The Northern Irishman will also work closely with director of football, Jason Wilcox, and the club's next academy director to 'maximise individual player development' and prepare young talent to perform in the first team. Ruben Amorim is committed to giving youngsters a chance in the senior set-up and will trust the opinion of his former player to provide insight on those ready to make the next step.
Read More
Jonny Evans has retired from professional football
In a statement released on Monday, Jonny Evans announced his official retirement from professional football and reacted to his new role at Manchester United.
“I want to officially announce my retirement from my playing career, not with sadness, but with pride, gratitude and excitement for the next chapter ahead. I’ll be forever indebted to the managers, coaches, staff and, of course, my team-mates, that I have had the privilege of working alongside throughout my 20 years in professional football.
“My biggest and most heartfelt thanks must go to the fans who have supported me during every step of the journey. It’s been an honour to be on the pitch and feel your passion home and away; I will be eternally grateful for every ounce of support.
“I am looking forward to working with the next generation of talented players to support them to reach their potential. Having had experience of loans myself, I know the crucial role that they can play within a player’s development. I am excited to help further develop the pathway to our first team and continue the legacy of young players thriving at Manchester United.”
Director of football Jason Wilcox added: “Having just finished his exceptional playing career, Jonny is the perfect role model for our young players. Jonny’s knowledge of what it takes to succeed at Manchester United will be of great benefit to each of them as we continue to develop world-class talent capable of performing in our first team.”
Continue Reading