Evra extends United stay

Manchester United full-back Patrice Evra has ended speculation over his future by signing a new one-year deal at Old Trafford.

Reports had suggested that the Frenchman’s eight-year stay was to end after the Premier League giants endured a tumultuous season and finished seventh.

However, the 33-year-old will remain at United for at least another campaign, and becomes the first player to commit his future to the club since Louis van Gaal was announced as United’s next manager.

“We can confirm that Patrice Evra has extended his contract at Manchester United for another year,” United posted on their official Twitter account.

Van Gaal is likely to undertake a significant rebuilding project at United, who finished 22 points behind champions Manchester City.

Some of the old guard are moving on, with captain Nemanja Vidic joining Inter next season and veteran centre-back partner Rio Ferdinand departing after 12 trophy-laden years.

Ryan Giggs, who took interim charge following the dismissal of David Moyes in April, has announced his retirement from playing but will assist Van Gaal.

Evra was largely expected to leave, with United reportedly in talks to sign England international left-back Luke Shaw from Southampton.

However, Evra will now look to add to the impressive medal haul he has achieved since Alex Ferguson paid Monaco a reported £5.5million in 2006.

Thus far Evra’s collection includes five Premier League titles, three League Cup medals and a UEFA Champions League triumph.