Manchester United have secured the future of starlet Jonny Evans, with a new four-year deal keeping him tied to the club hejoined as a kid.

Evans enjoyed a great season at United, filling in for Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic in a number of games this term.

"Jonny has signed a new deal," confirmed Ferguson.

"We have been working on it for a few months now and I am happy that he has signed it. Jonny Evans has played a lot of football this year.

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.