Manchester United defender Jonny Evans feels this season could be make or break for him.
Evans was confident he would get that extra year and Sir Alex Ferguson would not make a snap judgement based on a single poor season.
The departures of Wes Brown and John O'Shea to Sunderland were a further hint in that direction, although Evans realised he could not afford to take anything for granted.
"The manager never said anything to me and I never went to see him," he said.
"I was pretty confident the manager wouldn't get rid of me. I have always thought he has a bit of faith in me. Maybe you do have the odd doubt but I thought it would have been unfair if I had left, considering the two seasons I had before.
"Last year wasn't a total disaster. There were times when I did feel good and others where I felt I needed that level of consistency every week.
"I was on holiday when I heard John and Wes were in talks with Sunderland and would be leaving.
"It did make me think there was room but no matter who the manager gets rid of, or signs, there are so many players who can step into so many different positions it is crazy.
"If you are not in his plans he will move you on. If you are here you have a great chance of being involved."