After impressing on loan with Royal Antwerp in the first half of the 2006-07 campaign, the Belfast-born central defender represented his country at senior level and impressed in a season-long loan at Sunderland.

The 19 year old told the Belfast Telegraph: "The manager has made it clear that I won't be going out on loan again.

"I'll be back at United and we'll see what happens. I'll be involved in pre-season and he has more or less said that I will get games."

Evans was willing to return to Sunderland next season and gain experience - but is delighted to be told he has a future at Old Trafford.

He added: "I am a Manchester United fan and it has been my aim since I signed for the club to get into the first team.

"The incentive is there for me now and I want to be good enough to be playing for United."