24/11/2008 09:35, Report by Gemma Thompson
Evra wary of Rossi threat
Patrice Evra says United will need to keep a close eye on former team-mate Giuseppe Rossi in Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Villarreal.
The Italian striker, who spent three years at Old Trafford before heading to Spain last year, missed the opening Group E fixture against the Reds in September through injury.
The 21-year-old has been in rich goalscoring form of late, netting 7 goals in 11 games, and having witnessed Rossi’s qualities first hand Evra knows United’s defence will need to be on their guard.
“If you give him time and space in the box, he’ll score every time,” the Frenchman told ManUtd.com.
“He’s a great player and a good professional and I’m not surprised by how well he’s done. I wished him all the best when he left the club, but not against us!”
Despite making good progress at United, particularly in the reserves, Rossi faced stiff competition from first team regulars and was unable to get a regular run in the side.
“It’s not easy at United,” reasons Evra. “When I came here I had to compete with Gaby Heinze and Mikael Silvestre – we had three left-backs for one spot.
“When you look at the strikers now – you have Berbatov, Tevez, Rooney and Ronaldo, who can play there, as can Giggs.
“So even though Giuseppe is a great player, to play at United is very difficult particularly when you are a striker. Sometimes I joke with the lads and say ‘thank god I am a defender!’
“It was easy to see what a good player Giuseppe was when he was here and he has gone on to prove that at Villarreal.”
Patrice was talking to ManUtd.com, PA Sport and BBC Radio. |
發表於 2008-11-25 05:31 AM
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