What Sir Alex Ferguson told Jonny Evans amid praise for Kobbie Mainoo at Manchester United

Jonny Evans says Kobbie Mainoo, Dan Gore and Willy Kambwala have earned the trust of Erik ten Hag through their attitude and application as the academy production line continues to roll on.

All three made their debuts in 2023, with Kambwala the latest to earn his first senior minutes having been drafted in to play against West Ham in December. Former youth graduate Evans, now 36, says he spoke about the importance of ensuring youngsters continue to get opportunities at United.

The club have had at least one academy product in their matchday squad for the last 86 years. Alejandro Garnacho and Mainoo are now mainstays in the first-team having both made their maiden senior starts under Ten Hag.

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Evans has been impressed with Gore and Kmbwala too and hailed their mindset and professionalism despite their tender ages. “I have been so impressed and I think their attitudes, first and foremost, have been outstanding,” he said, as per the Express.

“Having a good attitude as a young kid always allows you to progress and you get to a certain period in your career. The three of them have got it.

“Every time they come into training, they show great character and application. I think that's the reason why they have been given that chance. The manager has to be able to look at that and see that he can trust them.”

Evans said: “I actually spoke to Sir Alex a month or two ago, just a quick phone call, and it is one of the things that came up, the history of the club and academy players and how it’s a big belief at this club to give young players a chance.”

The Northern Irish defender himself has been one of United’s best