Evra aims to learn lessons of Rome final

PATRICE Evra has claimed Manchester United paid the price for over–confidence in their Champions League final defeat to Barcelona two years ago.

Saturday’s Wembley rematch between the two European heavyweights has been depicted by some as a mismatch.

Gary Lineker is not alone in believing Barcelona’s technical brilliance far outshines United’s work ethic and barring any unforeseen developments, the Catalans will emerge victorious.

Evra is not bothered about that.

In fact, the United full–back is happy for praise to be scattered over Barca’s impressive shoulders.

Because exactly the opposite happened in Rome in 2009, and Evra believes United were duped into believing their own publicity.

“Everyone says Barcelona are the best team in the world now. I respect that,” he said.

“But two years ago everyone said we were going to beat Barcelona easily in Rome. Maybe the opposite will happen this time.”

The failure of Darren Fletcher to play any part in Gary Neville’s testimonial on Tuesday seemed to be an indication that Reds boss Sir Alex Ferguson has given up on the Scot having any meaningful involvement.

With concentration levels needing to be high, Fletcher’s mental application is among the best in the Premier League and although Anderson, who is the most obvious alternative, may have more pure ability, he has yet to show the same discipline with his positions on the field.

In addition, Ferguson will need to be absolutely certain Ryan Giggs is in the right frame of mind, although with United’s Carrington training complex now closed to the media, a sense of normality should return after the chaos of Tuesday.