Patrice Evra explains ‘problem’ that restricted ‘gifted’ Manchester United team-mate

Patrice Evra has revealed a funny story about one of his former Manchester United teammates.

The 43-year-old is recognised as one of the best left-backs in United’s history following a £5.5m switch from Ligue 1 outfit Monaco in 2006.

Under Sir Alex Ferguson’s guidance, United won five Premier League titles, a Champions League and three League Cups.

Evra left Old Trafford in 2014 before carrying on his playing career at Juventus, Marseille and West Ham.

In 2018, Evra announced his retirement.

Patrice Evra on Anderson

Speaking with comedian Shane Todd on the Tea With Me podcast, the former United defender discussed his life on and off the pitch, including a 3-0 win over East Belfast-based side Glentoran in a friendly match back in 2007.

Todd revealed that he attended the match and praised Anderson for putting in one of the best performances he’d ever seen.

“It was but he just loved McDonald’s,” Evra replied.

“But he could have been. I was always telling him and he would say, ‘Patrice, when I see the big M [sign], it is like Christmas.’ True story.

“Seriously, he is one of the most talented and gifted but he had some problem with his weight.”

Evra went on to recall a story involving Ferguson, who confronted Anderson about his eating, adding: “I remember one day I was with Ferguson and Ferguson says, ‘Anderson, come here,’” he added.

“He said, ‘Ando, I’ve spoke with the doctor, you need to eat healthy’ and whatever.

“Then Ando just asked the gaffer, ‘How much you earn in pay a week?’ Ferguson was like, ‘What?’

“He said, ‘Maybe when I have the same salary I am going to start eating salad.’ True story.”

Anderson made 181 appearances for United but never lived up to his expectations, which Evra puts down to his lifestyle choices.

Let us know in the comments section what you think of Anderson’s time at United.