Jonny Evans has two months to prove Manchester United point

When Jonny Evans arrived back at Manchester United in the summer, he would have scarcely believed the opportunity which now stands before him.

Initially thinking his time back would come to an end before the new season started, Evans was handed a one-year deal on deadline day amid injuries in the squad. Even up until Burnley last weekend, it seemed as though the Northern Irish centre-back was destined for a bit-part role at United.

However his inclusion in the starting XI, followed by the impressive display against the Clarets, suggest Evans' second spell at United could give him more opportunities than it first seemed. Couple this with the confirmation of Lisandro Martinez's injury and suddenly the 35-year-old's position becomes even more crucial.

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At the moment, the reoccurrence of Martinez's foot injury suggests the Argentine will be out for a couple of months. In the meantime, United's defence will be stretched to the limit considering the long-term problems Luke Shaw, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Tyrell Malacia are suffering with.

Ordinarily, Erik ten Hag would pick Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof to sit in the centre of the defence. However, after his performance last weekend, Evans is surely undroppable.

The ball is therefore firmly in Evans' court should he wish to prove he is not just a benchwarmer at United. With Harry Maguire pushed down the pecking order, it is inevitable the former Leicester City and West Bromwich Albion man will get minutes even if Varane and Lindelof are picked against Crystal Palace.

United are severely lacking options at present and squad depth is pitiful. Ten Hag has little choice but