Why I Almost Broke Gary Neville’s Neck During Training – Ex-Man U Star, Patrice Evra Opens Up

He also said that the particular incident helped him earn respect from fellow Manchester United players.

Patrice Evra

Patrice Evra, a former Manchester United defender, has revealed how he almost intentionally broke teammate, Gary Neville’s neck during a fiery training ground incident.

He also said that the particular incident helped him earn respect from fellow Manchester United players.

Praised for his leadership qualities, Evra was also described as one of the best left-backs in Europe.

He served as the captain for both Manchester United and the France national team.

“I had such a great relationship with Gary. When I arrived, he was the one coming with me, showing me around to find a house,” he told talkSPORT.

“What a great captain. On the training ground one day, I get the ball, he tackled me and he also got my leg. I was on the floor, it was painful. I said, ‘Gary – you don’t say sorry?’ And he gave me the ‘F’ word.

“The next ball, it was long diagonal, he controlled the ball with his chest, and I just did a wrestling movement. I tackled him on his throat and he nearly did a backflip and broke his neck.

“Ferguson stopped the training session. Everyone was in. Wayne Rooney said, ‘You’re crazy! He could’ve died the way he fell’.

“I said, ‘Next time, he will say sorry!’

“I got so much respect after that. He loved me because of the way I spoke about United. He said I was like a Mancunian.

“Gary is really simple, if you love Man United, he will be your best friend.”