30-10-2015, 23:59
Personally, I was never as overly enamored with Lescott as most of our fans are. He was a decent defender on the floor but weak in the air defensively and didn't have any legs. Given our defensive style under both Irvine and Pulis, his lack of legs was never really exposed - but appears to be getting exposed for Villa.
For me, when injured or dropped (By Irvine), McAuley was a much bigger miss because of his dominance in the air which is irreplaceable (Not looking forward to finding someone to replace him).
As for Evans, I wasn't sure when we were linked with him because he never really seemed adequate for United. However, to call a square a square, he's been very good since he come in. We always knew he was quick and good bringing the ball out of defence, but was has surprised me watching him more closely is how decent he is in the air and the fact that he seems a real leader. He has Lescott's best quality, the ability to win the ball early on the floor, but without any of his weaknesses.
So at the moment, Evans looks hands down the better option. The only area where Lescott appears to be better was in the air in the opposition's box, where he had a knack for finding space. Hopefully Evans can start to add some goals to his game too, as we know how important it is for a centre half to chip in with 4-5 goals under Pulis.
For me, when injured or dropped (By Irvine), McAuley was a much bigger miss because of his dominance in the air which is irreplaceable (Not looking forward to finding someone to replace him).
As for Evans, I wasn't sure when we were linked with him because he never really seemed adequate for United. However, to call a square a square, he's been very good since he come in. We always knew he was quick and good bringing the ball out of defence, but was has surprised me watching him more closely is how decent he is in the air and the fact that he seems a real leader. He has Lescott's best quality, the ability to win the ball early on the floor, but without any of his weaknesses.
So at the moment, Evans looks hands down the better option. The only area where Lescott appears to be better was in the air in the opposition's box, where he had a knack for finding space. Hopefully Evans can start to add some goals to his game too, as we know how important it is for a centre half to chip in with 4-5 goals under Pulis.