Manchester United defender voices concerns over sale of Jonny Evans to West Brom

Paddy McNair says he was sad to see Jonny Evans leave Old Trafford

PADDY McNAIR has admitted he was sad to see fellow Northern Irishman Jonny Evans leave Manchester United this summer.

 

The centre-back ended an eight-year spell in the United first team in August, penning a deal with West Brom.

The defender had fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford following a bust up with Louis van Gaal.

And despite defensive injuries, it was McNair who the Dutchman called upon, making 17 appearances in the 2014/15 season.

 

Jonny Evans is a doubt for Northern Ireland's clash with Greece

And the 20-year-old has revealed he was disappointed to lose Evans, who had become an inspiration and helping hand for him at the club.

"I was a little bit sad because he helped me a lot when I came into this team at United," McNair said in an interview with United Review. 

"He is a Northern Ireland international as well but I'm sure Jonny will do well at West Brom.

 

"It's definitely a good move for him with Darren Fletcher and Anders Lindegaard there as well. 

"He's a good player and will do well there, 100 per cent. I saw him shortly after the move with Ireland and he was happy, and excited to be playing regularly again."

With Evans an injury doubt for Northern Ireland's crucial European Championship clash with Greece, McNair will have the chance of featuring in the game that could see his country reach their first major tournament since 1986.

A win will secure a place for Michael O'Neill's side in the Euros and McNair says he's eager to play a role in France next summer.

"It is a special feeling and my Northern Ireland debut was the highlight of last season, along with my United debut against West Ham at Old Trafford," he said. 

"There is a lot of excitement about the team back home because we are close to qualifying for the Euros.

"It's given everyone a lift and we are excited for the match against Greece. If we win, then we'll qualify. It's in our hands and we're desperate to take our chance. Playing at the Euros would be special and, hopefully, we'll do the job. I haven't booked any holidays for next summer yet."