Evans on De Gea’s Growth, Cleverley injury news

The hopes of Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverly getting his first international cap on Wednesday might have been dashed, after he picked up a knock against Ajax on Thursday.

The 22-year-old was enjoying a superb start to the season before injuries hindered his progress. And it appears his injury problems haven’t ceased as Paul Scholes replace him after the hour mark in only his second appearance for the Champions after almost four months out.

Cleverley was sent for scans and if they confirm the talks of ligament damage, his absence will be a blow to the Red Devils who will need all their players fit for their Europa League and the title run in with neighbors Manchester City.

Sir Alex Ferguson told MUTV on Friday of Cleverly’s knock:

“He got a knock. We sent him for a scan but we don’t think it’s serious.”

On a side note Jonny Evans believes that David De Gea hasn’t been affected by the criticism aimed at him since joining the club.

Evans believes De Gea’s inability to read or understand the English language has played a significant role in the way the Spanish has dealt with criticism since arriving from Atletico Madrid. And now the Spaniard is finding his feet at the club, and his voice in the dressing room.

Evans said:

“It seems like he was coming into training and nothing was affecting him. He was just getting on with his game.

“But it was because he couldn’t read or understand what was going on around him. Overall, that was probably better.

“Now his presence is building. The language barrier is being broken down and he is coming out of his shell a bit.

“He has a joke now and is not afraid of getting involved in some of the dressing room chat. That is settling him down.

“David had a big price tag when he came to us during the summer. People had these huge expectations.  From day one his shot stopping has been unbelievable. He pulls off saves that are amazing.

“He just needed a bit of confidence. I am sure everyone at Manchester United has been through stages when it has not gone well.

“Then it’s down to your character to pull you through.”