“They were laughing at me in training” - When Manchester United legend Patrice Evra explained how Scholes and Ferdinand reacted to his signing

Patrice Evra on his Manchester United teammates after he was initially signed
Patrice Evra on his Manchester United teammates after he was initially signed

Former Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra recently recounted the reaction to his arrival from some of his former teammates. He said that the likes of Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand laughed at his lack of physicality during his initial days at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils signed Evra from AS Monaco for £5 million in January 2006. In an interview with Betfair, the Frenchman spoke about his early days at the club, saying (via Sport Bible):

"I love to be challenged in my life. I think that's when you see the best version of myself."
"I'll be honest with you, players like Paul Scholes, they said: 'Patrice I think you were a joke! I think we should send you back for free to Monaco!'".

Evra recalled how Rooney and Ferdinand would laugh at him during training:

"I remember some players like Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney they were laughing at me in training when people were pushing me down because I needed to adapt my football."
"I was a skilful player, I didn't know that first you needed to be strong. So first I went in the gym, which I never did while I was playing in France."

Evra went on to have a great career at Manchester United, registering 379 appearances in his over eight-year stay. He won five Premier League titles and one UEFA Champions League trophy, among other honors.


Erik ten Hag showers praise on Manchester United star linked with a move away this summer

Scott McTominay has been heavily linked with a move away from Manchester United this summer. As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Fulham have already made a bid over £20 million. However, it's likely to be rejected as the Red Devils want around £30 million.

Amidst such reports, manager Erik ten Hag recently heaped praise on McTominay, saying in a press conference (via manutd.com):

“I’m so pleased with the performance from Scott McTominay and so pleased to have him in my squad, for the type of person he is. He has such an impact on this team with his performance and team spirit.
"Of course, now we play him in a more advanced position, which suits him much better. He is so important in making goals for our team and I'm very pleased to work with him and have him in our squad.”

McTominay, 27, came through Manchester United's academy and has made 252 senior appearances for them so far. His current contract expires next summer.

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Edited by Aditya Singh