3/1 To Win
Following the arrival of four signings to bolster Derby County’s attacking options, Frank Lampard moved to add defensive midfielder George Evans to the squad.
The 23-year-old, who was at Manchester City academy during Lampard’s time at the club, had an impressive campaign for Reading in 2016/17 and will bring his football intelligence and composure to Pride Park Stadium.
So, how did Evans get to this point? Here, dcfc.co.uk takes an in-depth look at his career so far…
Background…
Evans was born in Cheadle, Greater Manchester, and is the son of former City player and physio, Ronnie Evans.
The midfielder followed in his dad’s footsteps, signing for City as a six-year-old and worked his way up through the ranks.
In September 2015, Evans made his first-team debut in City’s 4-1 win against Sunderland in the League Cup. In doing so, he became the second player in history to represent the club in every age group, after Chris Chantler.
Early Career…
Evans is most comfortable in a defensive midfield role, but has also been known to slot in as centre-back.
He mastered his skill under France legend and former midfielder, Patrick Vieira, during his time in City’s Elite Development Squad.
Vieira was a big fan of Evans, regularly raving about his quality and potential, in particular his composure on the ball.
Following several appearances on the first-team bench during the 2012/13 season, Evans was sent to further his development on loan at Crewe Alexandra. He made his senior debut within the first week and scored his first goal against local rivals, Port Vale, the following month.
Loan spells at Scunthorpe United and Walsall followed, his most successful the latter where he scored four goals in 16 matches during his three months at the club.
In January 2016, Evans was recalled by City as an offer for a permanent move to Reading had been made.
Championship Experience…
Evans quickly established himself at Madejski Stadium and was a key figure for Jaap Stam in his first full season.
He made 35 appearances in the 2016/17 campaign that saw the Royals reach the Championship play-off final. Evans received high praise for his performances against Fulham in the semi-finals where he shut down the Cottagers’ dangerman, Tom Cairney.
With two goals in 43 total appearances that season, Evans sees himself as more of a defensive-minded player. He is known for his intelligence and ability to read the game as well as his cool-headedness when in possession.
Reading didn’t enjoy the same success last season while Evans made just 18 league appearances.
With his move to Pride Park Stadium, Evans will further his development under another of the game’s best midfielders, Frank Lampard, who the former City man has said is a player he most looks up to.
