MANCHESTER UNITED fans have been left convinced that Jonny Evans is now the club’s first choice centre-back after Erik ten Hag’s latest press conference.

As reported by SunSport, Raphael Varane has been left “stunned” by his position in the Manchester United pecking order after seemingly dropping down to fourth choice.

Ten Hag’s comments have seemingly confirmed that Varane is behind Jonny Evans in the pecking order

Varane was angered at being chosen behind Evans for the Manchester derby

Varane hasn’t started a game since Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans were fitter for the Manchester derby, when Varane was benched in favor of them.

SunSport understands that Varane has vowed to remain “focused” for the remainder of the season, despite the uncertainty surrounding his future.

But ten Hag’s latest response when asked about Varane will not fill the World Cup winner with any confidence.

When asked about a rift between him and Varane, ten Hag said: “I don’t know what you’re talking about.

“It’s just rumours but there is internal competition. When you have to decide between two players who are brilliant – Varane and Harry Maguire – then you have to make a choice.”

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Fans pointed out that if ten Hag is deciding between Varane and Maguire for one spot, then that would make the 35-year-old Evans the first choice centre-half.

Evans was only ever signed by United to provide cover for the club at centre-back but now appears to be the cornerstone of ten Hag’s defence.

Fans were left perplexed by ten Hag’s response in the press conference, with one posting on X: “Meaning Evans is unstoppable??”

Evans will not be able to travel to Everton on Sunday, which is unfortunate for ten Hag.

It is probable that Varane and Maguire will be paired for the United match at Goodison.

Better news is Luke Shaw is scheduled to participate on Sunday after regaining his fitness.

United are expecting a defiant crowd at Everton as the fans look to give their team inspiration following their 10 point deduction for FFP breaches