Manchester United defender Jonny Evans admits having his family in close proximity to where he lives helps keeps him grounded. Despite firmly establishing himself in Sir Alex Ferguson’s first team plans, and ably deputising for both Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic whenever called on, the 21-year-old Northern Ireland star has made a concerted effort to avoid being a stereotypical Premier League footballer.
Evans told the Manchester Evening News: “If I am at not at my house, I go around to their house, maybe having dinner and spending the day with them.”
“They tell me I don’t have to be flash.”
“People see footballers and have this perception they are all flash and throwing money around.”
“They have always encouraged me not to be like that.”
Evans also credited Sir Alex Ferguson for his rapid rise to prominence at the club, suggesting all of his players strive to improve because they want to please him.
Evans said: “It is very rare for him (Ferguson) to say anything bad about his players. He always gives them 100% backing. It is great to have that from a manager.”
“You have to be on your toes as well as you cannot upset him.”
“You have seen what he has done in the past. If you are taking your eye off the ball, he will get rid of you.”
“He treats everyone as men. Everyone has got to deal with certain situations but if you need to go to him, he is there for you. He just wants you to enjoy your football.