'Credit to him': Dimitar Berbatov praises United star who won 100% tackles & 11/12 duels vs Aston Villa
Manchester United played out a goalless draw against Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.
The Red Devils went into the game on a four-match winless streak. They were unable to arrest the run after another average attacking display.
However, the club were better defensively compared to recent outings and ended up with a clean sheet.
Jonny Evans was handed the man of the match for his solid performance. Speaking after the draw, Berbatov was pleased with Evans and said that others should take notice.
He said on Sky Sports: “I am trying to find the right words here.
“Everybody on the pitch today should be ashamed because Jonny Evans is man of the match.
“Credit to him, he is 36. But everybody younger than him, next time, be better.”
Evans was a surprise starter in central defence alongside Harry Maguire. Maguire was replaced by Matthijs de Ligt at half-time, but the 36-year-old did not lose focus.
The veteran star won 11 out of 12 duels against Villa with 100% successful tackles (4/4). He also made three recoveries and three clearances over the entire game.
It was a big statement performance from Evans, considering he is no longer in the prime of his career.
Many fans questioned the manager’s decision to pick Evans in the line-up, but the draw against Villa could keep Erik ten Hag in the job beyond the international break.
United host Brentford at Old Trafford later this month before facing Fenerbahce and West Ham United away from home. It won’t be easy for them based on current form.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Fotmob.com