Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley believes teammate Jonny Evans won't be influenced by anyone over his future at Manchester United.

"I know Jonny loves it here and I know he enjoyed his time on loan here last season too," said Bardsley. "He's great to have in the dressing room - he's a bubbly character to have around.

"There's nothing to say that he won't come back, but Jonny will make his own decision at the end of the day.

"He's not the kind of person to be led by anybody.

"It is up to him and the manager and the owners and Manchester United, of course.

"But if it was in my hands, I know what I would do!"