From an early age at Manchester United, Jonny Evans says that Alex Ferguson knew who he was. It was that way with all young players at the club. Ferguson had a long-term vision and wanted an eye on those coming through the academy.
On the latest episode of The Big Interview with Graham Hunter, Evans told the journalist about one of the first times he met Ferguson.
We were all on trial, maybe 20 kids in this hotel in Manchester; he came and had dinner with us all. He introduced himself, I was 10 at the time, it was one of the first times I'd ever been over.
I'd met him on different occasions, I'd come over with my parents. He challenged me to a game of pool, I was maybe 11-years-old at the time, he beat me on the black ball.
My dad was not happy. He said, 'I can't believe [you let him beat you], that was a test and you let him beat you.'
The Northern Ireland international moved to the club in the late 90s at a time when they were battling Arsenal for the league. He spent his first six months living in digs along with Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and Luke Steele before his family moved over.
His brother Corry would also sign with the Man Utd academy.
My dad lost his job at the time and my brother was coming on trial later that year. Everything came to a head at the time. I think the family decided, 'let's just all go.'
For me to have my family there was just amazing. My brother signed academy forms. We were all on that journey together.
Evans added that the interest Ferguson showed in young players was a real boost.
He always had time for the youngsters. For players, to know that he had that involvement and was always watching us, making sure we were progressing how he wanted us to.
He had a long-term vision and I don't think people realise that or understand it. He could see so far in advance. He was preparing us and preparing players who could come into his team and handle it.
Picture credit: Sportsfile
