Manchester United defender Patrice Evra could be entering his last season with the Premier League champions. The 32-year old has been with the Lancashire outfit for seven years – signing from newly-promoted French Ligue One side AS Monaco.
His contract expires next summer, and his advancing age would suggest the likelihood of him extending his deal with the Red Devils is slim. Manchester United also signed left-back Alexander Buttner last season to be used seemingly as cover, but potentially to step into his shoes if he continues his development. However, he failed to oust Evra in his debut campaign.
Last season, the French international made 34 Premier League appearances – scoring four goals. BBC pundit Garth Crooks named him in his Premier League Team of the Year, while others felt Evra was lacking in parts last season.
Nevertheless, he’s been a great servant for his side, and is named in many fans’ Manchester United all-time best XI.
Making 48 caps for the France national team, Evra was omitted from France’s 23-man side which made the World Cup final in 2006 – losing to Italy on penalties.
Manchester United manager David Moyes has made two bids for Evra’s potential successor Leighton Baines of Everton – which have so far been unsuccessful.
Evra wants to extend his stay with the club past next summer, and certainly proved his point to Moyes during United’s 2-0 win over Wigan Athletic in the Community Shield. The left-back was enthusiastic in possession, and showed the Evra of old with his mazy dribbling runs from deep.
He’s under no illusions he’s playing for his future as well as a starting place, and he can ill-afford to be short of form this coming season.
Should he perform well enough, there’s a slim chance he could force a contract extension next summer, but he’s aware this could be his final year with United.
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