'So pleased' - The Manchester United transfer gamble that Erik ten Hag got right

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag saluted centre-back Jonny Evans after he produced a solid showing in Saturday's 2-0 win over Everton at Old Trafford.

Evans made his second successive Premier League start for the visit of the Toffees, having started the Manchester derby defeat to City at the Etihad Stadium six days earlier. Partnering Raphael Varane in the heart of the defence, the Northern Irishman produced a solid display, helping United earn a first Premier League clean sheet in five matches.

Earning a standing ovation when he was substituted and replaced by Willy Kambwala with 89 minutes played, Evans completed four clearances, blocked four shots and produced two interceptions. He also boasted an 88 per cent passing accuracy.

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The former Leicester City man, who returned to Old Trafford on a free transfer last September after spending the summer at Carrington to maintain his fitness levels, was once again tasked with starting in the heart of the back-four as a result of United's defensive injury problems. Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez remain absent.

Luke Shaw's absence meant Victor Lindelof was once again tasked with operating as an emergency left-back. Despite the defensive crisis Ten Hag is having to manage, Evans and Varane complemented each other excellently against Everton, despite the visitors racking up 23 shots.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Ten Hag hailed Evans, saying: "Oh yes, [I have been] very [impressed]. We are so pleased we signed the fifth centre-back because normally, you say: 'Why five centre-backs in