Manchester United defender Jonny Evans admits he's fighting for his future at Old Trafford.

The Northern Ireland centre-back, 25, has been an experienced figure in a youthful United team this season.

But the summer signing of Phil Jones has forced him down the pecking order in an already crowded defence.

Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand join Jones and fellow youngster Chris Smalling in competing for positions.

And Evans knows he must improve after an inconsistent season at Old Trafford last term.

He said: "Of the three seasons since I came back from Sunderland, the last one was my most difficult. I didn't hit the form I wanted.

"I went away and thought maybe I have another year. If I had another season like that I am sure the manager wouldn't want me around.

"I wasn't playing consistently to a good enough standard for Manchester United so I have gone back to basics and worked hard."