Sir Alex Ferguson has backed Jonny Evans after some stunning recent performances, and has labelled him the 'new Nemanja Vidic'.

In Tuesday's match programme Sir Alex wrote: "I take several positives from our form, including the performance of Jonny Evans."

"Jonny showed why one day he will be a regular Manchester United centre-half. A number of clubs have bid substantial amounts for him, but we have turned them all down because his future is with us.

Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken of the need for younsgeters like Jonny Evans to step their game up this year, or face up to the fact that they will never make it at Old Trafford.

Ferguson said: "When we signed these young lads, we thought they had the potential to go on and do well.

"They have now come to an age where we need to start making big decisions on them. We have to decide whether they should go on loan again or whether they can join our squad of 23 players.

"I would be delighted with that. It is a challenge for them as the standard of our team is high."