Patrice Evra makes surprise admission on Ruben Amorim's Manchester United tenure

Patrice Evra insisted he's seen "a lot of improvements" at Manchester United since Ruben Amorim's appointment, despite their Premier League plight.

United succumbed to their 17th league defeat of the season on Sunday as they were beaten by an off-kilter West Ham outfit who were winless in their previous eight matches.

The result saw Amorim's men slide to 16th in the standings with only four Premier League victories in the calendar year, of which three were against the relegated trio of Ipswich Town, Leicester City and Southampton.

United's progression in the UEFA Europa League has offered supporters some solace as the club prepare to face Tottenham Hotspur in a fascinating all-English final at the Estadio San Mames in Bilbao.

Success in the competition is essential if the Red Devils are to salvage something from their campaign and qualify for the UEFA Champions League next term.

Evra did not shy away from highlighting how the season has been a calamitous one for the club he once proudly represented, but the former United left-back was keen to stress that Amorim has brought about positive change since succeeding Erik ten Hag in November.

"It's been a disaster. It's not a great season," Evra told Sky Sports. "I think Amorim knows that. I had a meeting with him and he's not happy, but I love his humility because you know, he admits things.

"I love his honesty. I said 'welcome to your club' and he said 'no Patrice, I'm at your club'. I love his personality, but of course, the results have been really bad this season.

In his first year, I see a lot of improvements. There is discipline. The player who doesn't want to run, who doesn't want to die for the badge, they won't play for Manchester United.

"He brought in a few players [Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven], but they need time to adapt. Even myself with Vidic when he arrived, we had six months to adapt, so next year won't be an excuse.

"But we will be good if we play Champions League next year because he'll be able to attract more players, maybe the players he wanted form the beginning, so it's a crucial moment in the history of the club."

United's ability to qualify for the UEFA Champions League will have a significant bearing on the calibre of players they're aiming to attract in what's set to be a defining summer for the club.

Retaining Bruno Fernandes will also be key amid rumours of Saudi Pro League interest in the Portuguese playmaker.

Fernandes has been a shining light in a bleak United period and Evra was keen to praise the 30-year-old for the manner in which he's applied himself.

"He's the most important player in the team," Evra added. "If Bruno wasn't there, maybe we wouldn't even be in the final of the Europa League. "

Jaquob Crooke

• Manchester United F.C.
• Premier League
• • 
  •