Man Utd new signing says he was ‘not up to scratch’ in worrying admission over latest performance

JONNY EVANS admitted his performance was “not up to scratch” after Northern Ireland’s clash with Slovakia on Thursday.

The Manchester United defender was in the starting XI as his country took on Slovenia in Ljubljana.

Jonny Evans was in action for Northern Ireland on ThursdayCredit: Pacemaker

He managed to get on the scoresheet for Michael O’Neill’s men – but later confessed to not having a great night.

Evans, 35, was caught out trying to play offside for Slovenia’s first goal.

Isaac Price swiftly levelled for Northern Ireland, before a shot inadvertently deflected off Evans and in to put Slovenia 2-1 in front.

He was then turned by Benjamin Sesko as the striker made it 3-1.

His deflected effort got his side back into the game at 3-2.

But a second on the night for Andraz Sporar made it 4-2 and game over just moments later.

After the match, Evans confessed: “I didn’t think I played great myself.

“I know I got a goal, but my own personal performance probably wasn’t up to scratch.

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“I’m experienced enough and wise enough to admit that. We can’t be giving away cheap goals at the start of the game like we did.

“It was difficult to take in terms of the defence. That’s something we have always been solid and quite strong with.

“Even during the game I was thinking this is not a typical Northern Ireland match especially away from home.”

O’Neill’s men have just one win from five games during this campaign, coming against San Marino, despite landing a favourable draw.

Northern Ireland are in Group H alongside Finland, Denmark, Slovenia, Kazakhstan and San Marino.

Evans signed a one-year deal at Man United on deadline day after spending pre-season with his old side.

He was thrust into the action against Arsenal last weekend following a raft of defensive injuries.

The Belfast-born ace finished the match alongside his former Leicester centre-back partner Harry Maguire.

United went in to stoppage time level at 1-1, but saw their point slip away after stoppage time strikes by Declan Rice and Gabriel Jesus.

Evans featured against Arsenal alongside Harry MaguireCredit: Alamy