Manchester United defender Jonny Evans knows he cannot expect to be an automatic starter this season.
Evans had expected to be involved in the Carling Cup encounter with Middlesbrough on Tuesday, although at least United's victory ensures the Belfast-born youngster will have another match to play as United look to progress into the quarter-finals and beyond.
Evans knows he will be on the bench at best as the Old Trafford club start the long climb back to the Premier League summit.
But, having shown his ability at the top level in two loan spells at Sunderland, Evans is aware patience will prove to be a virtue at United.
"I do not know how much I am going to play," he said. "I might have to wait on injuries or play in cup games.
"With Gerard Pique moving on you think there is an opening but then Gary Neville is coming back from injury.
"We just have so many good players who can fit into different positions.
"But even if I am not playing, I will be looking to improve and gain experience. I have felt a bigger part of things this year.
"The manager has told me to be patient and I will get a chance."