Evra on Euro glory hunt

26 May 2009 11:09
Patrice Evra expects a tough game against Barcelona on Wednesday, but is determined to come out on top. The Manchester United full-back is set to go toe-to-toe with the Catalan giants in the final of the UEFA Champions League. The Red Devils are looking to become the first club to successfully defend the title in its current format, having overcome Chelsea in a penalty shoot-out 12 months ago. Evra admits he is desperate to get his hands on another winners' medal, but accepts that Barca superstar Lionel Messi is set to offer a stern test of his defensive capabilities. "I remember in my first interview after I arrived in Manchester, I said: 'I didn't come here to play in the Champions League, I have come to win it'," Evra told L'Equipe. "At the moment I have one, but I want a second one and then a third one. That is my objective. "Of course I will endure a difficult night against Messi. I know that. I have a lot of respect for him but I am confident I can handle him. Proud "I know that I could make 20 challenges and then lose just one and he could score. People would then say that I have failed. "It is up to me to ensure that the story has a positive ending. (Sir Alex) Ferguson has said: 'Messi? Pat will take care of him'. I hope I don't disappoint him. "I feel strong though. People can call me arrogant, but why should I lie? Of course I feel strong and of course I am proud as well. I am at the top of the pyramid, but I am not stupid and I realise that one small step could see me fall down very quickly." Evra has also revealed that United's quest to defend their European crown began the moment they left the field after their epic tussle with Chelsea last season. Hungry"After the win in Moscow last year, on our way back, the coach stood up and said: 'Gentlemen, I want to thank you, but next year I will look into everyone's eyes and I will see if you are still hungry. The ones that are not hungry anymore will be out of the team'. "That is what it is like here - you win and you have to forget about it, you win again and you have to forget about it again. "In a way it is a shame that we don't get to celebrate the titles, but that is what a winning culture is all about."

Source: SKY_Sports