United have energy to burn - Evra

12 September 2011 10:30

Patrice Evra has warned Chelsea what Manchester United lack in experience they make up for in energy.

After posting the best ever start at this stage of a Premier League season thanks to their 5-0 battering of Bolton, United are ready to tackle the biggest test yet of their title credentials. But, whilst Evra respects the Blues, he does not fear them, especially knowing how much talent has been injected into the Old Trafford outfit by the youngsters Sir Alex Ferguson has introduced this season.

"Maybe Chelsea have more experience but United have more energy," said the France defender. "Energy in football is really important. That is why I am really happy the young players play for us."

He added: "They deserve it. They are training hard and the boss has never been afraid to let them play.

"Sunday will be a big game for us. We have to make sure we win."

United will be without one of their youngsters, although the news about midfielder Tom Cleverley is not as bad as Sir Alex Ferguson initially feared following the early tackle by Kevin Davies on Saturday.

Ferguson initially thought Cleverley had broken his foot, which would have meant a three-month stint on the sidelines. Instead, the 22-year-old has only sustained ligament damage which will be enough to keep him out for a month - a period which includes England's Euro 2012 qualifier in Montenegro.

However, the Basingstoke-born youngster should be fit by mid-November for the friendly debut Fabio Capello intends to offer, providing England avoid a play-off to reach Poland and Ukraine.

Cleverley will also miss United's opening two Champions League games, starting with Wednesday's trip to Benfica, which could be Phil Jones' debut in the competition.

"The main reason I came to Manchester United was to test my abilities against the best players in the world," said the defender, who produced an outstanding performance at full-back on Saturday. "The Champions League is a great competition for me to do that. Hopefully if I get selected I will prove that I am up to the task."

Source: PA