Jonny Evans thinks Manchester United’s players were quieter than usual on the pitch against Rosenborg because they haven’t played together regularly.
United began their pre-season schedule with a 1-0 loss against Rosenborg in Norway and Evans was one of five senior players to play the opening 45 minutes of the match.
Evans, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Casemiro, Mason Mount and Marcus Rashford all started against Rosenborg, who had a fitness edge due to being in the middle of their season. Six youngsters made the starting XI and the entire outfield was replaced for the second half, which meant another 10 youngsters from the academy were given minutes.
Erik ten Hag brought a youthful squad to face Rosenberg in Norway and former United player Ronny Johnsen, who was on punditry duty for MUTV, asked Evans why there seemed to be a lack of communication between those in red shirts at the Lerkendal Stadium.
“I think so,” said Evans to the suggestion it was down to players being inexperienced. “And the players haven’t actually played together that much, so it’s important you see the overall picture and we’re trying to get fitness. Quite a lot of players are away at the Euros.
“Some will be back for the tour and some will be with us after, so the most important thing is to show a good attitude and get the fitness into as many players as you can.”
Evans admitted he was ‘tired’ after the game and said: “It was a good workout for us, they were quite sharp and aggressive, which is what you expect when teams play against United.
“They’re quite a few games into their season and you can feel that in their game with their passing and physicality, so it was good for us to get in at half-time at 0-0, but I’m just disappointed we didn’t see the game out at the end.”
He continued: “I remember my first pre-season tour and going away with the first-team and you can be quite nervy as a young lad, coming in and physically I remember how difficult it was because you’re playing in a little bit of heat with a little bit of nervous energy.
“You’re trying to show everything you’ve got. I know what they’re going through, I’ve been there and experienced that – the senior players were always incredible with me. – and they always wanted me to never be too stressed and show what I could do.”
Radek Vitek delivered a man-of-the-match performance in between the sticks for United and Evans praised him. “I think I missed all of his saves because I was down on the deck with my shoulder but he was great,” he joked, referring to a knock he sustained in the first half.
“He made more saves in the second half and he can be pleased. He went out on loan last year, he had a great time getting that experience, and he’s a great shot-stopper.”
Evans made 30 appearances last season and recently signed a new one-year contract with United.
