Alexander Buttner targets left-back berth at Manchester United - even if Leighton Baines arrives from Everton
The deputy to Patrice Evra concedes it took him time to settle at Old Trafford
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Alexander Buttner has talked up the benefits of competition for places that exists at Manchester United, suggesting his arrival improved Patrice Evra.
There could soon be even more competition for his particular position, with Manchester United targeting Everton left-back Leighton Baines.
David Moyes has seen his former club Everton reject one bid for Baines, but the Reds are expected to return with an improved offer.
Buttner for one will see the overall benefits for the club should a deal go through.
"Manchester United need two good left-backs," said Buttner. "I put pressure on Patrice (Evra) because I did well when I played.
"But Patrice did well also. That is the way it works at United, you put pressure on each other."
Talking specifically about the arrival of Baines, the £4m signing from Vitesse is relaxed.
"The speculation doesn't bother me," he said.
"I hear the name Baines but for me I don't care.
"I want to play my own game. If he comes I don't think my future will be in danger.
"I just want to be strong and let the trainer see what I have got. I don't think about other players, just myself."
Though the 24-year-old Buttner spent long periods on the sidelines in his first season at the club, he still managed 13 appearances and Ferguson made sure he received a Premier League title medal in recognition of his overall contribution.
Yet Buttner's impact may have gone beyond his own performances - it is acknowledged by most United observers that Evra stepped up considerably on his displays in the previous season.
Buttner admits it took him some time to get used to his new surroundings.
But now he is loving life at Old Trafford, featuring extensively on the club's pre-season tour, and played the full second half in last night's 5-2 win over Kitchee FC in Hong Kong.
"The first few months were difficult for me," said Buttner. "I had to settle in. But I think I did very well.
"I played 13 games for this team. That is good.
"This season my target is to play more games. I want to go for the left-back position."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments