Manchester United defender Jonny Evans is expecting a tough encounter when Wigan Athletic visit Old Trafford on Boxing Day.
Utd defender feels Boxing Day opponents will be free from pressure
Manchester United defender Jonny Evans is expecting a tough encounter when Wigan Athletic visit Old Trafford on Boxing Day.
The Red Devils have won all 13 previous meetings between the two clubs and face a Wigan side who are currently in the relegation zone.
Yet Roberto Martinez's men have lost just once in their last six games, including home draws with Chelsea and Liverpool, and they will make the short trip free from any expectations.
Evans, who experienced a relegation fight during a loan spell with Sunderland, is sure Wigan will arrive in Manchester ready to scrap for every ball.
Relax
"I was involved in a bit of a relegation battle at Sunderland," said Evans. "Against the big teams we actually tended to play a bit better.
"You relax a bit because the pressure's off and lift yourself. You are not expected to pick up points and obviously, that can help you.
"I know at the minute Wigan are near the bottom of the league but they have had some decent results in the last few weeks.
"They've drawn against both Liverpool and Chelsea and it is going to be tough."
Evans has also noted a change in philosophy among teams visiting Old Trafford, with a greater determination to go on the attack very much in evidence.
"When I used to watch as a fan I remember always thinking the away team never really tried to score," he said. "They'd just sit back and play one up front.
"There has been a bit of a shift in that philosophy over the last few years. Teams are coming to Old Trafford and thinking they may as well go for it."
Advantage
The Northern Ireland international is also pleased United are at home on Boxing Day, saying: "It's a period we enjoy. You'd think we get annoyed because we don't get to spend Christmas with our family, but it's quite a nice feeling coming into training on Christmas morning.
"It's only a short and sharp session and the Boxing Day game is always a big one for the fans. And the fact we have two home games this season is an advantage as well.
"I can remember in the past spending Christmas night travelling up to Sunderland, for instance.
"It's good to be at home and we don't have to leave the house until a bit later."
