Patrice Evra insists Manchester United must secure maximum points
from their festive fixtures as they look to make up lost ground at
the top.
Two defeats in three games has left United four points adrift
of leaders Chelsea, who have hardly been in the best of form
themselves.
As Sir Alex Ferguson's men are not in action again until they
visit Hull on December 27, the chances are things will get worse
before they get better.
But Evra is remaining optimistic. The Frenchman feels three
points at the KC Stadium plus another victory against Wigan at Old
Trafford on December 30 will put the Red Devils right back in the
hunt ahead of a mini break, when cup football takes over.
"It's a crucial time," he said. "We lost against Aston Villa
and Fulham but the target is to win every game we can from now on.
"We always do well in this period and now, more than ever, we
need victories."
It hardly needs to be stated where United's problems lie.
Ferguson had eight senior defenders missing at Craven Cottage and
was forced to deploy a back three that included rookie Ritchie De
Laet.
Although it does not completely explain why they were so bad
against Bobby Zamora and company, it does provide a starting point.
Yet, shoved into a position he has no experience in, Evra actually
thinks Michael Carrick has done quite well.
"He has quality," said Evra. "He doesn't have to play all
season at the back but he can do it for some games."
From past statements, Gary Neville's groin injury is expected
to be the quickest to heal of United's various ailments.
Whether that comes it time for Sunday is open to doubt, which
means Evra will have to carry on talking to the men around him.
Evra said: "I try to give experience at the back and make
sure we all speak to each other.
"It's not easy but we have a strong squad, and you have to be
able to play anywhere to win the title."
