West Brom boss Alan Pardew insists Jonny Evans could still play for Man United

West Brom manager Alan Pardew has claimed defender Jonny Evans could still be playing for Manchester United as the Northern Irishman prepares to take on his former club on Sunday.

Evans was no longer required at Old Trafford just over two years ago and was sold to West Brom for a reasonable £6million.

But Pardew, the newly installed manager at The Hawthorns, thinks Jose Mourinho could still fit Evans into his side now.

'He's just a great player,' Pardew told reporters.

'I think he showed that the other night against Liverpool. Make no mistake, he could easily wear a Manchester United shirt on Sunday.'

Evans was a summer transfer target for Manchester City, Arsenal and Leicester, with all three clubs having offers for the 29-year-old turned down as West Brom stuck to an asking price in excess of £30million.

Reports have suggested City and the Gunners remain interested in signing Evans and both will return to test the Baggies' resolve when the transfer window opens again on January 1.

'I am hopeful, but football is football,' added Pardew when asked if he thinks Evans will stay.

West Brom welcome Manchester United after a buoyant 0-0 draw at Anfield in midweek but Pardew is still looking for his first win since he took the job last month.