Jonny Evans revels in victory in 200th Manchester United appearance - 'One of the best nights of my life'

Manchester United dug out a narrow 1-0 victory over Burnley on Saturday evening, snapping a three-game losing streak in the process, and Jonny Evans was one of the star turns on his return to the starting XI.

Portuguese midfielder Bruno Fernandes scored the only goal of the game, securing a victory that lifts The Red Devils back into the top half of the Premier League.

That goal came courtesy of a delightful lofted pass by veteran defender Evans on the stroke of half-time.

The Northern Irishman was delighted with his role in United's victory.

After the match, speaking to TNT Sports, he said: "I loved every minute of it. Coming on the bus, I was just buzzing. I think that was my 200th game for Man United and I never thought I'd do that. It's an absolute honour and one of the best nights of my life, coming back and playing for the club again."

Goalscorer Fernandes was full of praise for Evans. Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, he said: "It was a great pass, I know he has a great quality playing the ball in behind. I was waiting for him, it was tough to get behind them, but it was a great ball and a great finish and good to get the win."

Evans was making his second appearance of his second stint at United, eight years after his first spell ended at 198 appearances.

While Evans was delighted with his personal role, he remained focus on the importance of the victory for United and their season.

He explained: "It was massive, I think we’ve had a tough couple of games. This is a tough place to come. You want to be successful and you want to win games but you have to keep a clean sheet."

Evans continued, explaining why he was so emotional about his return to the club.

He said: "I never thought - you know what it’s like when you get to a certain age, you’re winding down your career - but there was no other option for me. So I came back in and thankfully my body has seen me through. I think for me in the time I’ve been here is just observing and see how they play as it’s different than my previous club so just take my time.”

Evans is under no illusions about his place in the hierarchy at United, as he explained: "The role that was made out to me was coming in as cover, so I had to fill the gap so for me it was just about trying to be ready."

Things could have been even better for Evans had his 26th-minute goal not been ruled out by VAR.

Speaking to TNT Sports pundit Rio Ferdinand after the match, Evans explained how the goal had come about.

He said: "We made a bit of eye contact, just before I got the ball."

Ferdinand responded: "It’s good that at that age you can still see that far.”

The veteran's selection in the starting line up by manager Erik ten Hag was met with some frustration by United fans online, but he more than justified his place with his contribution to victory.

Evans didn't have it all his own way though. The 35-year-old suffered a head knock after colliding with goalkeeper Andre Onana's knee in an attempt to clear a dangerous ball.

He was then substituted before full-time.

Loanee full-back Sergio Reguilon was also substituted.

With United already suffering through something of an injury crisis, the last thing they need is to lose another starter. Tyrell Malacia, Amad Diallo, Mason Mount, Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are all sidelined with injury, while Jadon Sancho and Antony are suspended by the club.

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