Former Leicester City captain Jonny Evans has officially announced his retirement with the centre-back stepping into a new role at Manchester United that could help his old club.
Evans’ playing contract at Old Trafford ended this summer and while retirement was widely expected, the former Northern Ireland international has now confirmed that he’s hung up his boots.
In the same breath, he was announced as United’s head of loans and pathways, helping the club’s best young players to find the right club to begin their senior careers and hopefully aid their journey into the Red Devils’ first team.
The last time City were in the Championship, they brought in four players on loan. It’s a market they could turn to again to avoid big transfer fees.
If there’s a youngster at United who can make a difference, they will hope Evans can do them a favour.
Evans said: “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.”
Evans finishes his career with 536 appearances to his name, including 152 in five years with City.
He was part of the squad that twice finished fifth in the Premier League and that won the FA Cup, but his one season as the club’s captain ended in relegation.
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