Evra Praised By Ex-Reds

Patrice Evra has earned generous tributes from former Manchester United defenders Denis Irwin and Mikael Silvestre, describing him as "a great servant".

The France international has left the club for Juventus after an eight-and-a-half year stint that reaped five Premier League titles, the Champions League, three League Cups and the Club World Cup.

But the left-back's influence went beyond just the trophy haul according to Denis, who told MUTV: "He's been a great servant for us, a great leader and a fantastic personality in the dressing room as well. It's another experienced player going, but unfortunately that happens at football clubs, players move on and we wish him all the best but he has been a fantastic player for Manchester United.

“He was very noble in his letter to the fans and he loved Manchester United, there’s no doubt about that. He knew what it was all about, the traditions and the history of United. He embraced it all and he was a firm favourite of the fans as well.

“When things are going against you, you need some characters like Patrice in a dressing room to lift everybody’s spirits, so he will be sorely missed on that front. It’s a big loss but we are Manchester United and we move on.”

Silvestre, a team-mate of Evra’s in his early days at Old Trafford, expanded on why his fellow countryman was such a key figure for the Reds.

“He was all about banter, he loved having a laugh and making fun of people but he liked it when people made fun of him. You have to take it both ways, and he was a good character, always positive and that’s why he was important in the dressing room.

"It's sad to see him going after such a long period at the club. Now it is a new era with Luke Shaw. He's a very good investment for the club. Patrice did really well and I spoke to him and congratulated him on his move. I would just tell good luck."