PATRICE EVRA will miss the Europa League final to attend his sister’s funeral.
Evra’s beloved Manchester United will bid to secure Champions League qualification with victory over their Premier League rivals Tottenham in Bilbao on Wednesday night.
Evra, 44, was set to be in attendance in Bilbao but will miss the match due to the death of his sister, who recently lost her 20-year battle with cancer.
The Frenchman said: “Hi guys. I was supposed to come to Bilbao tomorrow for the final in person to show you support, sharing my positive energy.
“But unfortunately, I have to go to Paris for the funeral of my sister on the same day as the final.
“She was 56, fighting against the cancer for 20 years.”
A heartbroken Evera, who was one of 23 siblings, then urged Ruben Amorim’s troops to show the same strength his late sister showed to end their dismal season on a high.
He continued: “Resilience, fighting. That’s what I want from you guys tomorrow. Just fight, bleed for this shirt.
“For the fans, for the staff, for the people in Manchester, for the fans all around the world, there is no excuse. This is your duty tomorrow.
“I think your coach is someone I support, someone I believe in. Even if we win or we lose, give something guys.
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“It’s gonna be a tough game. Tottenham also has a lot to lose.
“They are in the same position in the league like us.
“They didn’t win a trophy, so this is a massive chance for them. But this is no excuse. We are Man United.
“Do you know how many fans gonna travel around the world and believe they’re gonna celebrate after the game because they believe in you guys, no matter what.
“Because we can do it guys. So like I say, bleed for this shirt, the history.
“Think about the people, your family or whatever, there is no way other than to win.
“Don’t be selfish. It’s a qualification in the Champions League, so we can prepare for the future next year.
“So guys, you know, I will be far away. I’m counting on you.”
Unfortunately, I have to go to Paris for the funeral of my sister on the same day as the final.”
Patrice Evra on Instagram
Evra receives scores of condolences after announcing his bereavement.
One of his followers wrote: “So sorry for your loss.”
Another said: “So sorry for your loss, Patrice. Sending you and yours lots of love and prayers!”
And another said: “My deepest condolences.”
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One remarked: “Sorry for your loss, legend.”
Another chimed in: “Sorry for your loss, unc Pat.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
