Patrice Evra admits he had a bone to pick with Manchester United’s critics after City pipped his side to the title last year – but now the Frenchman is all smiles.
The transformation from last-day agony to ecstasy was completed against Aston Villa as Robin van Persie’s hattrick ensured the Premier League would be returning to Old Trafford.
And Evra – who has notched four goals himself this season – insists the rapid turnaround is down to United’s unrelenting desire for success.
“Everyone is really happy, we deserve that title,” Evra told MUTV. “I remember, last year when we lost the title, everyone was laughing and saying Manchester City would take control of the Premier League.
“I said we didn’t play well, I admit it, but, if Manchester United get the consistency back, we will win the title by 10 points.
“I was wrong as now we’re winning it by 16 points but I was not too far away!
“This is the winning mentality and why I play for Manchester United.”
As well as regaining their consistency, United stocked their arsenal with a high-octane weapon over the summer in van Persie.
After netting 28 goals this term he would be forgiven for showing a bit of arrogance, but Evra revealed the Dutchman is a person who keeps his feet on the ground.
“I think, when the boss bought Robin van Persie, everyone knew he was a top-class player when playing for Arsenal,” he added. “But to play with him is just unbelievable.
“He came here with a lot of humility. I remember at Southampton when he missed a penalty but scored a hat-trick he said sorry to everyone in the dressing room.
“That shows you the character and personality of Robin van Persie.
“I’m really pleased with him and I hope he wins the top scorer in the Premier League and, why not, also the Player of the Year.”
Image courtesy of MUTV via YouTube, with thanks.
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