I'm staying here for Evra and Evra: United defender signs new deal - Sport - Evening Standard
       

I'm staying here for Evra and Evra: United defender signs new deal

Patrice Evra has signed a four-year contract extension at Manchester United.

The France defender, who did not feature in his country's disappointing
goalless draw with Romania at Euro 2008 on Monday, has proved to be an astute
signing by Sir Alex Ferguson.

And although his present deal still had another year to run, Ferguson has now
tied the former Monaco man to Old Trafford until 2012.

Evra, who celebrated his 27th birthday last month, overcame a difficult first
six months at United to become one of the best left-backs in Europe.

New deal: Patrice Evra will stay at Old Trafford another four years

New deal: Patrice Evra will stay at Old Trafford another four years

A member of back-to-back Premier League title squads, the Senegal-born star was
part of the Red Devils side which defeated Chelsea in the Champions League
final.

"The last two-and-a-half seasons have been the start of a dream for me," he
said.

"It is a pleasure and an honour to be part of this fantastic side and to be
coached by Sir Alex Ferguson and his staff.

"Manchester United is more than a club, it is a family I am proud to be a part
of and that is why it has always been a first choice for me.

"I declared when arrived that I was coming here not just to play but to win
and United is the ideal place to realise such a dream.

"It is a privilege to play in front of our fantastic fans and I am sure that
the success we have earned in the last two seasons confirms the history of this
club and will be the start of something even more special."

With a number of key figures - including defenders Rio Ferdinand, Wes Brown and
Nemanja Vidic - signing contracts recently, Evra's new deal means Ferguson has
secured the services of his established back four for the foreseeable future,
certainly beyond the two years he expects to remain.

Ferguson is already looking ahead to a busy season, which includes the European
Super Cup and World Club Championship, as well as the defence of United's two
major honours and views Evra as an integral part of those plans.

"Patrice has been a key part of the club's success in the last two seasons,"
said the United boss.

"He has developed into one of the best full-backs in world football and his
infectious personality has helped to build the incredible team spirit that
exists at Old Trafford."


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