Jonny Evans is set to make his first start for Manchester United in over eight years in the upcoming as the Red Devils take on Burnley at Turf Moor on Saturday, September 23, 2023.
The 35-year-old defender will partner with Victor Lindelof due to Lisandro Martinez’s injury, while Raphael Varane, although back in the squad, isn’t considered fit enough to start, and Harry Maguire is sidelined with an injury.
Evans’ last start for United dates back to March 4, 2015, during a 1-0 victory against Newcastle in which Ashley Young scored a crucial 89th-minute winner.
The announcement of his inclusion in the starting lineup surprised many fans, generating considerable buzz on social media.
Manager Ten Hag defended the decision, explaining, “Martinez is dealing with an injury, unfortunately. He had a previous issue in the spring, and now he’s facing another one. We must work with the available players we have.”
Young midfielder Hannibal Mejbri was also given a spot in the starting XI following his goal in the previous match against Brighton.
![Jonny Evans (R) with Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag. Evans has signed a one-year-long deal with the club. [Photo/Courtesy].](https://capemedia.africa/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/evans-1024x536.jpg)
He replaced Facundo Pellistri from the midweek Champions League loss to Bayern Munich. Scott McTominay was another addition to the lineup, taking the place of Christian Eriksen in the third and final change to the team.
In addition to Varane’s return, Ten Hag had the luxury of naming Sofyan Amrabat in the matchday squad for the first time since his arrival from Fiorentina on deadline day.
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Jonny Evans rejoined Manchester United initially on a short-term deal during the preseason, following the expiration of his contract with Leicester after their relegation.
![Jonny Evans came through the ranks at Manchester United before departing for West Bromwich Albion in 2015. [Photo/Courtesy].](https://capemedia.africa/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/e51ecf13-5e17-4bee-9277-baacc577ec7b-1-1024x576.jpg)
He later extended his contract for the season, serving as United’s fifth-choice center-back.
A product of Manchester United’s academy, the Northern Irish defender made 198 first-team appearances for the club before departing for West Bromwich Albion in 2015.
During his first spell at Old Trafford, Evans secured three Premier League titles, two League Cups, and the Champions League. He has also earned 102 caps for his country.
