Evans hungry for success

Jonny Evans is an exciting prospect for Northern Ireland

Jonny Evans goes into Saturday's Euro 2008 qualifier determined to live up to his billing as one of Northern Ireland's brightest prospects.

The 18-year-old Manchester United defender made an impressive debut in the 3-2 win over Spain in September and he is hungry for more success.

Evans, currently on a season-long loan deal at United's feeder club Royal Antwerp, is clearly ambitious.

"I always set myself targets and the idea was to get in Manchester United's first team before the end of last season," he said.

"It did not happen but that made me even more determined to succeed.

"I was called up for United's squad to South Africa and played a few pre-season games.

"Then two months later I was playing international football against Spain so things have happened pretty quickly.

"Last year I was in United's reserves so going to Antwerp is a natural progression as I am playing first-team football in Europe.

Jonny Evans enjoyed a dramatic 3-2 win over Spain on his NI debut

"You want to make that next step up. That is the way you have to look at things and I am pleased with the way things are progressing."

It has not been all sunshine in Belgium's second tier, however, as Evans has been sent off twice in recent weeks.

When he made a brief visit to United's training base on Monday at Carrington, the first person he bumped into was manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

"All I will say is that he made a swift remark," stated Evans.

"I got sent off the first time for a late tackle but I was really surprised to see the red card. That is the way it is over there.

"The second one came when we were beating local rivals Mechelen.

"We were winning and there was a bit of scuffle. I just pushed the guy to get away and he has fallen to the ground as if I had hit him."

Evans made his bow against Spain after being called up from the Northern Ireland Under-21 squad following their narrow defeat by Germany in a European Championship qualifier.

"I got a call on the Saturday night when I was out with a few friends and linked up with the squad the next day," added Evans.

"Getting involved in the game against Spain was a bit of a surprise.

"But I enjoying meeting the lads as well as taking part in training.

"The sessions have been a real challenge but also good fun."

The province's hot prospect is thrilled to be sharing a room with skipper Aaron Hughes, who is set to win his 50th cap against Denmark.

Evans said: "The first time I met Aaron I was in a hotel with my family.

"He came over and introduced himself. It shows what type of person he is and his quality as captain of Northern Ireland."